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Spinal Stimulators: Review of the Current Evidence

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The use of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has widely increased in terms of neuromodulation for patients with chronic pain. This article discusses the most recent evidence of various indications of SCS to manage pain and improve the quality of life in patients.

Recent Findings

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved SCS for specific etiologies of chronic pain. The ongoing effort has been dedicated to improving stimulation mechanisms and expanding indications of SCS with promising results. It is essential for providers to be aware of the most current technology and approved and potential indications of SCS to maximize outcomes for each individual patient.

Summary

SCS can manage chronic pain for patients and improve their function and quality of life. Specific FDA-approved indications are currently available for patients and can be used for managing debilitating pain. The development of non-FDA indications for SCS is ongoing and provides hope for patients with refractory pain.

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Data Availability

No datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.

References

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EJ, TA, JK, and SK were responsible for conception and design. SK provided administrative support. All authors wrote the manuscript text. All authors reviewed and gave final approval of the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Soo Y. Kim.

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Esha Jain, Oranicha Jumreornvong, Tariq AlFarra, Jung H. Kim, Darryl Brown, and Soo Y. Kim declare no conflict of interest.

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Jain, E., Jumreornvong, O., AlFarra, T. et al. Spinal Stimulators: Review of the Current Evidence. Curr Phys Med Rehabil Rep 12, 210–216 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40141-024-00445-7

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