Connect
spinal cord stimulator vs. TENS unit
Do these devises operate on the same principle?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.
Do these devises operate on the same principle?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.
ConnectConnect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers.
Hello @sharonwelter1, Welcome to Connect. In my non-expert opinion I think they are a little bit similar but a lot different in how well they work. Here's some basic info that explains it a little.
"TENS and SCS produce similar effects in neuropathic, inflammatory and non-inflammatory muscle pain models while MA is only effective in inflammatory and neuropathic pain models."
-- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, acupuncture, and spinal cord stimulation on neuropathic, inflammatory and, non-inflammatory pain in rat models:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7136295/
There are some discussions you might want to read through to ask questions of members who have tried or are using a spinal cord stimulator or TENS unit.
-- Comparison of Spinal Cord Stimulators from Boston Sci., Nevro:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/comparison-of-spinal-cord-stimulators-from-boston-sci-nevro/
-- Spinal Cord Stimulation:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/spinal-cord-stimulation-3/
-- TENS Units:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/are-tens-units-any-help-for-chronic-pain-andor-pne/
Have you been looking at getting spinal cord stimulator or a TENS unit to help with chronic pain?
What are the benefits of the SCS system vs. the TENS units? And are the costs to patient similar?
Yes, for cervical. Appt this month is triage for cervical spinal stimulator at Mayo in Rochester. Would appreciate replies. Degenerative discs C3-C7. I have had every injection, tests and procedures possible. I did not pass for ablation. Neck pain right side 24/7, little sleep and headaches beginning, and slight shoulder pain. My neck cracks very often when I turn my head.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsThey are not the same nor are the costs. A TENS unit, which can purchased over the counter, operates outside the body while an SCS is internal and placed by a doctor in a procedure room under fluoroscopy. A trial is required prior to permanent placement at which time the battery is placed under the skin. It's like a pacemaker battery. Hope this helps.