Mid-back pain can derail your activities if you don’t do anything about it. You’ll feel physically uncomfortable to the point that even restful activities, like sleep, won’t be enjoyable. Stretching and massaging the problem area won’t always be enough. And while medications can provide temporary relief, they aren’t a long-term solution. Fortunately, neuromodulation therapies are changing the landscape of back pain treatments, providing more targeted answers to ongoing pain.
Keep reading to learn about the latest breakthroughs with neuromodulation therapies to treat mid-back pain.
Neuromodulation and TENS
Neuromodulation relies on chemical stimulation to shift activity within the nervous system. This, in turn, changes how nerve cells interact, leading to focused pain relief. Best of all, this treatment is non-invasive and can cover many conditions, including depression and Parkinson’s disease.
A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit is a device that can administer this form of pain management. They deliver electric currents that stimulate nerves to regulate pain signals. As a result, patients can experience the release of endorphins, which act as painkillers. TENS can be an excellent way to manage pain, and it’s possible to adjust the intensity of electrical pulses depending on pain levels. Patients undergoing treatment with TENS can experience better mobility and overall comfort, and it’s an effective first choice for mild or moderate mid-back pain.
Sustained Relief with Implantable Neuromodulation Systems
Sometimes, non-invasive treatments are not strong enough. Simple activities like walking can become taxing with severe mid-back pain. The impact of treatments like TENS may fade too quickly, leading to recurring pain and limited mobility.
By contrast, implantable neuromodulation systems offer ongoing effectiveness. These are a permanent solution, and they use a pulse generator to help manage chronic pain. Initially, the patients will undergo a trial phase to test the procedure’s effectiveness. Assuming there is pain relief, the permanent system is implanted. Electrical impulses are delivered to the spinal cord by way of thin wires. Rather than feeling pain, the patient may not feel anything at all. The pulse generator sits in the back and can benefit patients who could not find relief with non-invasive therapies.
Spinal cord stimulator surgery does require using general anesthesia, but the results can be worth the more involved procedure. Many patients can go home on the same day as their surgery. However, they will have to be mindful of their movements and pain in the incision areas, though. They may not be able to go to the gym or lift heavy items for a while.
Considering the Risks
Surgeries involve risks. And any treatment won’t be perfect. Implantation systems reside within the body, elevating the potential for follow-up procedures or infections. The device may malfunction or need to be replaced, or the battery may run out. Patients should understand, however, that a surgeon can remove the device in those instances.
Additionally, any medical procedure comes with significant costs. Patients should check to see if the procedure will be covered by insurance. And they should understand what they’ll be responsible for with out-of-pocket expenses.
Taking the Next Step
Neuromodulation can be a life-changing solution for individuals suffering from chronic pain. It’s always best to consult with a seasoned medical professional to outline pain management options first. It may be wise to start with a more conservative approach before moving to surgery. But if mid-back pain is a persistent problem, neuromodulation may be the answer.
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Luys Parker