In February 2008, the FDA approved a new pain management technology, a neurostimulator device that is used to control chronic pain in the back and legs. The device, called RestoreULTRA, is produced by the medical technology company Medtronics and is the latest development in neurostimulator systems. For the first time, patients with chronic pain will be able to control their own neurostimulation instead of relying upon a physician.
Neurostimulation decreases pain by sending a low voltage electrical stimulation to the spinal cord and peripheral nerves in an area that inhibits pain signals. The procedure is based on the "gate theory,” which suggests that there is a gate in the spinal cord that controls the transmission of pain.
When a non-painful stimulus is delivered from the neurostimulator device to the spinal cord, it closes the gate, thereby preventing the painful sensation from being transmitted. The individual may feel a tingling sensation from the device’s activation, which signifies that the previously painful nerve fiber signals are now being inhibited.
Neurostimulation devices are often used in chronic pain conditions such as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, also known as complex regional pain syndrome. There are also other indications for the use of such a device. When considering neurostimulation, it is important to thoroughly discuss the risk and benefits with a physician who specializes in pain treatment and pain management.
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For more information about pain management, see Managing Your Chronic Pain: Start Here.
Still interested in pain stimulators? Check out Neurostimulation Devices Help Those Suffering From Chronic Pain for more information.
