Current Status
Spinal cord stimulators have been around for about 20 years. There are three companies that manufacture them:- Advanced Biosystems
- Advanced Neuromodulatory Systems
- Medtronics
Spinal cord stimulators are used for nerve pain. Two of the most common conditions that may warrant the use of this type of device are:
Although spinal cord stimulators can be an excellent choice for management for chronic pain conditions, it is an area that should be tread lightly. Arming yourself with research can help you anticipate both positive and negative outcomes of using this type of system.
Stake
With the public still reeling over the lethal side effects of Cox-2 inhibitors such as Vioxx, more people may be tempted to try spinal cord stimulators.
Spinal cord stimulation is an invasive pain management strategy, opening up new dimensions of potential health risks.
