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When Is Spinal Cord Stimulator Used?

Posted on Wed, 20 May 2015

Question: hi I am a 48 year old that had work injury in 2000 resulting in laminectomy L4 L5 S1 which resulted in nerve problem I have since fallen many times resulting in left laterl relese tib transfer and eventually knee rplacement of titainium and right pelvis fusion and now I have protrusion onleft side of spine drs have suggested spinal cord stimulator I am scare and was wondering if it will help with my knee as well as my nerve problem in my back. I have been on durogesic patches for over 5 years as well as panadeine forte I would like your input on this

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Dura stimulator gives pain relief only

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have studied your case. Dura stimulator is a electrode which offers pain relief in nerve compression pain but otherwise offer no added benefit . So you will not going to get any advantage in knee.
Only if your pain in knee is due to nerve compression then you can have some pain relief but if this pain is due to arthritis or failed knee replacement surgery then this pain is going to continue like this.
I would also suggest you to avoid Panadeine forte as it has codeine which has addiction problem. I would recommend you to take Gabapentin , Amytryptalin or Tramadol for better and safe pain relief.
I hope this answer will be useful for you.Let me know if there is any other followup questions.
thanks

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar