Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Assessment & Support

Optimising Your Pain Recovery with SCS Support

Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation

A Spinal Cord Stimulator, also known as a neuromodulation implant, is an advanced medical device designed to alleviate chronic pain. It works by sending mild electrical pulses to your spinal cord, effectively altering neural “danger” messages before they reach your brain. Think of it as a 'pain dimmer switch' that helps reduce the intensity of your pain experience.


Why Occupational Therapy for SCS?

The Unique Role of Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who specialise in helping people participate in meaningful daily activities despite health challenges. For SCS treatment, they are essential because they:


Beyond Pain Management

Occupational therapy addresses the whole picture of your recovery:


The OT SCS Assessment Process

Stage 1: Pre-Procedure Assessment

After discussing spinal cord stimulation with your pain specialist, your journey begins with a pre-procedure session with an occupational therapist. This initial assessment is crucial for:


Stage 2: SCS Trial

If you're deemed a suitable candidate, you'll proceed to the SCS trial:


Stage 3: Proceed to Implant

If your trial was a success, you'll proceed to the SCS battery implant


Stage 4: Post-Implant Follow-Up

After the implant, or if you did not proceed to implant, you'll have follow-up sessions with your occupational therapist:


Practical Benefits

Why Occupational Therapy is Essential

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in your SCS journey by:


What to Expect from Your Occupational Therapy Sessions

During your occupational therapy sessions, you can expect:

Helping You at Every Step of the Way

By engaging with occupational therapy as part of your SCS treatment, you can experience:

Remember, your occupational therapist is here to support you every step of the way. They will work closely with your pain specialist to ensure you receive the best possible care and outcomes from your SCS treatment.

For more information or to schedule your assessment, please contact our clinic. We're here to help you on your journey towards better pain recovery and improved quality of life.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why has my pain specialist referred me to an occupational therapist?

A: Occupational therapists are crucial members of your pain management team because they focus on helping you perform daily activities more effectively. They ensure you're well-prepared for the SCS procedure and can make the most of this treatment in your everyday life.


How does occupational therapy contribute to the SCS assessment process?

A: Occupational therapists conduct comprehensive pre-implant assessments, evaluating how pain affects your daily activities, work, and quality of life. They help set realistic goals, identify potential barriers to recovery, and prepare you mentally and physically for the procedure.


How many sessions will I need?

Most patients benefit from one pre-procedure session and six follow-up sessions over 4-6 weeks after implantation. Your specific needs may vary, and your therapist will create a personalised plan.


What activities will the occupational therapist focus on during SCS treatment?

A: An occupational therapist will focus on activities that are meaningful to you, such as self-care tasks, work-related activities, and leisure pursuits. They'll help you gradually return to these activities using strategies like pacing, ergonomic modifications, and adaptive techniques.


Will I learn new ways to manage my pain?

Yes, you'll learn evidence-based strategies including:


How will the occupational therapist help me use the SCS effectively in my daily life?

A: The occupational therapist will guide you in integrating the use of your SCS into your daily routines and activities. They'll help you understand how to adjust stimulation levels for different tasks and teach you strategies to maximise the benefits of the SCS throughout your day.


Will the occupational therapist help me return to work after the SCS procedure?

A: Yes, if returning to work is one of your goals, the occupational therapist can assess your work environment and tasks, recommend modifications if needed, and develop a plan to gradually increase your work capacity while managing pain.


How does occupational therapy help with work return?

Your therapist will:


How does occupational therapy address sleep issues due to chronic pain?

A: Occupational therapists can provide guidance on sleep hygiene, bedroom ergonomics, and relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality. They may also help you establish routines that promote better sleep patterns.


Can occupational therapy help me engage in leisure activities despite chronic pain?

A: Absolutely. Your occupational therapist will work with you to modify leisure activities or find new ones that align with your interests and physical capabilities, helping you maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.


Will occupational therapy address the emotional aspects of living with chronic pain?

A: Yes, occupational therapists take a holistic approach. They can provide strategies for managing stress and anxiety related to chronic pain, and help you develop coping mechanisms to improve your overall emotional well-being.


How do I prepare for my first appointment?

Consider:


Can occupational therapy help me reduce my reliance on pain medications?

A: While medication management is primarily the role of your pain specialist, occupational therapy can provide non-pharmacological pain management strategies that may help reduce reliance on medications over time. Always consult with your pain specialist before making any changes to your medication regimen.


What happens if the SCS trial isn't successful?

Your occupational therapist will continue to work with you on alternative pain management strategies and help you maintain function in daily activities, regardless of the trial outcome.

Booking Your Assessment

Take the first step in your SCS journey by scheduling your initial occupational therapy assessment. Our experienced team works closely with your pain specialist to ensure comprehensive care throughout your treatment process.

Call us on (08) 7082 0622 or email reception@lifeworksot.com.au to get started.