Electrical Stimulation Therapies Electrical Stimulation Therapies Description Electrical stimulation of the nerves or spinal cord can offer relief in cases of pain which has a significant neuropathic component. The use of electrical stimulation to relieve pain stemmed from the Gate Control Theory of Pain, developed by Melzak and Wall in 1965. Patients appreciate a tingling sensation when the stimulator is active.
Stimulation is usually pleasant and accompanied by relief of pain in the area of tingling.
Pain relief often continues for variable periods following cessation of stimulation. One or two leads my be implanted, depending on the location and type of pain. Pulse generator - A power source that produces and delivers the electrical impulses to the lead. Other systems use a small magnet to turn the stimulation to a high or low setting as well as on or off. Screening Process A preliminary trial of spinal cord stimulation takes place for one to two weeks, while at home, prior to total implantation of the system.