New Advances in Neuromodulation

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this article is to illustrate the recent advances made in the field of neuromodulation for chronic pain management and it provides a brief review of the literature supporting their safe and efficacious use.

Recent Findings

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been an effective therapy for the management of intractable pain conditions including complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), peripheral neuropathy, and failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). With the introduction of high-frequency and burst SCS waveforms, there has been a noted improvement in the treatment outcomes of these pain syndromes. Dorsal root ganglion stimulation and peripheral nerve stimulation have made it possible to achieve pain relief in the focal areas of pain, which was difficult before with the use of conventional SCS.

Summary

Chronic pain conditions afflict a large population and are the leading causes of disability among industrialized nations. Conditions such as CRPS, peripheral neuropathy, and FBSS are often difficult to treat with conservative medical measures. This has been one of the factors that have led to increased opioid prescribing and has contributed to the current opioid crisis. Neuromodulation offers a relatively safe and effective therapy for the chronic pain patients that have failed conservative pain measures or are unwilling to undergo higher risk options such as spine surgery or opioid therapy.

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