Neuromodulation as a Treatment of RSD
Neuromodulation as a Treatment of RSD. Every day, countless people live in chronic pain. This pain can take many forms. For some people, it could be pain that prevents them from getting out of bed in the morning. For others, it may make it hard for them to engage in the activities that they enjoy. Regardless of the reason, nobody should have to live in chronic pain. Unfortunately, many people do. According to some of the information that has been published by the American Academy of Pain Medicine:
- On a yearly basis, the total cost of health care for those who suffer from chronic pain is around $600 billion, which takes into account not only the costs related to healthcare but also the economic costs related to lost wages.
- Greater than half of all patients who are hospitalized and subsequently pass away spend their last few days in chronic pain.
- Around one out of every five Americans indicated that pain disrupts their sleep on a regular basis.
This information shows that chronic pain can impact people in multiple ways and for those who suffer from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, which is also referred to as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, this pain can be excruciating. For this reason, it is important to understand some important points about the various treatment options that are available.
Pain Management in RSD: The Basics
When someone has received a diagnosis of RSD, it is important to take a comprehensive approach to pain management. By far, this is the biggest reason why people with RSD have issues pertaining to their quality of life. This pain can prevent them from maintaining gainful employment, going to school, or even from getting out of bed in the morning. Some of the common treatment options include NSAIDs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and narcotics. Of course, these medications do have their side effects and may not provide effective symptom relief on their own. Because of this, it is important to explore alternative, novel treatment options as well.
Neuromodulation: What Is It?
Lately, neuromodulation has been mentioned as a treatment option for many different types of chronic pain, including RSD. There are a few important points for people to understand about neuromodulation, which include:
- The brain sends and receives signals using molecules called neurotransmitters
- Each of these neurotransmitters is different
- Examples include glutamine, dopamine, and serotonin
- These neurotransmitters serve different functions, helping to control the motor and sensory function of the brain
- Neuromodulation refers to techniques that change the flow of these neurotransmitters, helping to alter the perception of various signals inside of the brain
Some of these neurotransmitters control pain, offering a potential treatment target for individuals who are struggling with RSD.
An Effective Treatment Option for RSD
There are lots of different techniques that fall under the umbrella of neuromodulation. These techniques can be a part of an effective treatment strategy for RSD. Some examples of neuromodulation include:
- Medications that alter the number of certain neurotransmitters inside of the brain
- Behavioral therapy to change the way that people think, which can influence the amounts of these neurotransmitters
- Implantable devices inside of the skull that change these neurotransmitters directly
Ultimately, neuromodulation is still an active area of research, and more information is needed. Together with conventional treatment options, neuromodulation can help people with RSD manage their pain.
Help from a Trained Lawyer
When a family is struggling with RSD, it is important to understand that help is available. There are lots of questions that need to be answered, such as:
- How exactly did I develop RSD in the first place?
- How is this going to impact my ability to return to work or school?
- What can my loved ones do to try and ease the burden of a chronic illness?
- Is there any way that this could have been prevented?
- Who is available to provide assistance during this difficult time?
Families who are in need of answers should reach out to an RSD attorney in Sacramento. A trained attorney has multiple resources that are available for families in need. Do not be nervous about asking for help because you and your family could be entitled to a financial reward.
Contact an RSD Attorney in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Attorney in Sacramento. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with spinal cord problems due to Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please give me a call at (916)-382-0693. I would be happy to share free, friendly advice with anyone who asks.
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