Neuromodulation – An Alternative for Pain Relief and More!

When we get injured the typical recommendation for recovery is R.I.C.E., an acronym that stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate. If that’s not enough we may even take over the counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to help with the symptoms. But, what do you do when you fall victim to an injury of the nervous system? It’s not something you can put ice on or wrap with an ACE bandage.

Injury and disease to the nervous system can cause what we refer to as Neuropathic pain. Studies have yet to identify an obvious cause but some common causes of neuropathic pain include:

• Alcoholism

• Amputation

• Chemotherapy

• Diabetes

• Facial nerve problems

• HIV infection or AIDS

• Multiple myelomas

• Multiple sclerosis

• Nerve or spinal cord compression from herniated discs or from arthritis in the spine

• Shingles

• Spine surgery

• Syphilis

• Thyroid problems

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms often include changes in sensations including burning pain, tingling, or numbness, and some describe their pain as a “pins and needles” sensation. If you are experiencing any such symptoms, some of the more common treatments for neuropathic pain include:

• Antidepressants and anti-epileptics

• Topical ointments like lidocaine or capsaicin cream

• Botox Injections

• NMDA antagonists like ketamine and dextromethorphan

• Physical Therapy

If you’ve already tried these treatments without success or are looking for an alternative, one often overlooked treatment is Neuromodulation.

Neuromodulation is the alteration of nerve activity through targeted delivery of a stimulus, such as electrical stimulation or chemical agents, to specific neurological sites in the body. In simpler terms, imagine applying two heart-monitor-like electrodes to your skin and running an electric stimulus between them for about a half-hour. This stimulus over time has shown to “reboot” a patients nerve activity and reduce chronic pain.

Other conditions that benefit from Neuromodulation?

Aside from chronic pain, Neuromodulation has shown to be beneficial for many other illnesses and conditions including:

• Parkinson’s Disease

• Peripheral Vascular Disease

• Spasticity

• Movement Disorders

• Epilepsy

• Ischaemia

• Cardiac

• Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction

• Spinal Injuries

• Visual Illnesses

• Specific Psychiatric Disorders

Could neuromodulation be a solution for you or a loved one? Call our office to learn more at 704-752-8100 or click below to schedule your free phone consultation.