Hope and Help for Treating Painful Diabetic Neuropathy

FDA Approves Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) Device that Targets Diabetic Nerve Pain

In July 2021, the FDA approved a spinal cord stimulation device specifically indicated to treat painful diabetic neuropathy. This new indication means that a non-pharmacological approach to managing painful diabetic neuropathy will be more widely available for diabetic patients. Affiliated pain specialists at National Spine and Pain Centers are highly trained medical professionals dedicated to ensuring that their patients receive the most current information and treatments available and are proud to offer this advanced treatment in their clinic setting.

What is Painful Diabetic Neuropathy?

Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is nerve pain associated with diabetes mellitus. Inadequately managed type 1 or type 2 diabetes can result in uncontrolled high blood sugar which can damage nerves, ultimately causing pain and discomfort typically in the legs and feet. This pain may become chronic and can feel like a numbness, tingling, or burning sensation. Like all pain, PDN is unique to each individual and may feel like a sensation difficult to describe or which may change over time. Pain specialists can thoroughly assess the quality of pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and provide an effective management strategy to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Spinal cord stimulation is a method to manage painful diabetic neuropathy that is not based on medication.

Contact National Spine & Pain Centers to schedule an appointment with an affiliated pain specialist today.

What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) provides pain relief using a device placed under the skin that transmits mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord. This stimulation transmits a pleasant mild tingling sensation that is used to map the area of pain. Once this is mapped, a mild undetectable signal is used to interrupt the feeling of pain. SCS typically involves a trial period in which a pain specialist safely places a stimulator device during an outpatient clinic visit. Once efficacy and comfort have been established, then a longer-term device can be placed in an outpatient surgical setting. SCS has been safely used to treat various types of neuropathic pain for over 30 years. However, it is only recent that the FDA has approved an SCS device specifically targeted to treat painful diabetic neuropathy.

Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation for Peripheral Diabetic Neuropathy

With the recent FDA approval of an SCS device, pain specialists at NSPC can help diabetic patients suffering from painful diabetic neuropathy combat pain with an innovative non-pharmacological approach. The SCS device targeting PDN offers safe, effective and prolonged pain relief for diabetic neuropathies that can lead to improved wellbeing and health related quality of life. In addition, FDA approval of an SCS device specific for PDN may importantly allow for greater cooperation with health insurance companies and reimbursement. Affiliated pain specialists with the National Spine and Pain Centers remain at the forefront of utilizing research and the most current therapies to compassionately and effectively help patients manage pain.