The FDA has just added Painful Diabetic Neuropathy to the list of conditions that Spinal Cord Stimulation can treat. Spinal Cord Stimulation devices help patients who suffer from chronic pain caused by a variety of conditions by sending mild electrical signals through the spine. This treatment can offer amazing pain relief for those who suffer from Painful Diabetic Neuropathy.
What is Painful Diabetic Neuropathy?
Painful Diabetic Neuropathy is nerve damage caused by chronically high blood pressure in those with diabetes. It is not reversible but can be managed by controlling blood sugar levels and with pain management medications and treatments. Symptoms of Painful Diabetic Neuropathy can range from uncomfortable to extremely painful and include:
- Tingling or burning
- Numbness
- Oversensitive skin
- Pins and Needles
- Sharp stabbing pains
- Muscle weakness
- Balance problems
Other symptoms may also be connected to Painful Diabetic Neuropathy. Over-the-counter and prescription pain medications may be used as the first line of pain management. For some who suffer from this condition, medication is not enough. It is crucial that other pain management options be available when medication fails. The recent FDA approval of Spinal Cord Stimulation for Painful Diabetic Neuropathy has helped to pave the way towards better pain management for those who need it.
Why Spinal Cord Stimulation Works
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) works to manage pain in those with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy because it treats the nervous system directly. Using a small device, mild electrical signals are sent into the spine, reducing pain in the nerves. This directly helps relieve Painful Diabetic Neuropathy, as pain associated with this condition is caused by damaged nerves.
Clinical trials for SCS found that 62% of patients receiving this treatment saw neurologic exam improvements, compared to only 3% of patients receiving conventional pain management alone. 70% of patients saw an improvement in their pain levels using SCS.
How Dr. Thompson of The Pain Center San Diego Can Help.
Managing Painful Diabetic Neuropathy is difficult. Dr. Sandra Thompson is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist with 28+ years of experience. If you're experiencing pain associated with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy, Dr. Thompson can help. The Pain Center San Diego is proud to offer Spinal Cord Stimulation to help those suffering from pain caused by nerve damage.
If you're ready to see how The Pain Center San Diego can help you, contact us today to learn more about how we can help manage your chronic pain.