Who Qualifies for Ketamine for Pain? – Pre-screening criteria and answers
TLDR Ketamine infusion therapy is generally considered for people with chronic pain that has not responded well to more conventional treatments. Good candidates often have nerve-related pain conditions such as CRPS, neuropathic pain, or certain forms of persistent post-surgical pain. Before scheduling an infusion, a pain physician will review your medical history, current medications, […]
Can You Travel or Work With a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
TLDR Yes, most patients travel and return to work after getting a spinal cord stimulator. The first few weeks after the permanent implant come with real restrictions, but they are temporary. Flying requires a card in your wallet and an extra few minutes at security. Desk work can often resume within two weeks. Physical jobs […]
Why NYC Patients Are Choosing Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
TLDR Peripheral nerve stimulation is a minimally invasive implanted device that targets a specific nerve to reduce chronic pain. It does not require spinal surgery, recovery is faster than most patients expect, and it fits the demands of a city where stopping for six weeks is not an option for most people. For conditions like […]
What CRPS Actually Feels Like
TLDR CRPS produces pain that is wildly disproportionate to the original injury, often described as burning, stabbing, or electric. The affected limb can change color, temperature, and appearance. Clothing touching your skin can feel unbearable. Most patients with CRPS have been dismissed, misdiagnosed, or told the pain is psychological before they get an accurate diagnosis. […]
PNS vs. Spinal Cord Stimulator – What Is the Difference and Which One Treats Your Pain?
TLDR Spinal cord stimulation targets pain by modulating signals in the spinal cord. Peripheral nerve stimulation targets a specific nerve directly, closer to where the pain actually is. SCS tends to be better for widespread pain across the back and legs. PNS tends to be better for localized pain tied to a specific nerve. Some […]
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Covered by Insurance?
TLDR: Spinal cord stimulation is covered by Medicare and most major commercial insurance plans for patients who meet specific criteria. Coverage is not automatic. You need documented proof that conservative treatments have failed, a successful trial, and often a psychological evaluation. Prior authorization is required. The process takes time but is manageable, and our team […]
Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial vs. Permanent Implant – A Clear Guide for Patients Deciding What Comes Next
TLDR: The trial is a temporary test run, usually 5 to 7 days, where leads are placed without a full implant to see if the therapy actually helps your pain. If it does, you move to the permanent implant. If it does not, the leads are removed and nothing permanent has been done to your […]
Living With a Spinal Cord Stimulator in NYC – What Patients Actually Want to Know
TLDR: Life with a spinal cord stimulator in New York City is manageable, but it comes with specific logistical questions that most general guides do not answer. Can you take the subway? What about airport security at JFK? What do you do if the device needs attention and you are in the middle of Manhattan? […]
7 Spinal Cord Stimulator Misconceptions That Are Keeping Patients in Pain
TLDR: Spinal cord stimulation is not a last resort, it does not mean permanent commitment, and most patients go home the same day as their trial. The device does not replace your spinal cord and is fully reversible. Insurance often covers it, and most people with prior back surgery are still candidates. If you have […]
Why SI Joint Pain Keeps Coming Back and How to Finally Stop It
TLDR SI joint pain comes back because the root cause was never fully fixed. Here is what you need to know: Injections and rest reduce pain but do not fix the underlying joint instability Weak glutes, tight hip flexors, and poor movement habits keep stressing the same joint NYC specific triggers like asymmetric bag carrying, […]