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, […]
Walking, Sitting and Exercising After SI Joint Injections: A Recovery Guide for New Yorkers
TLDR Had your SI joint injection and wondering what comes next? Here is the short version: Day 1: Rest at home, short gentle walks around the house are fine, skip the subway stairs Days 2 to 4: 5 to 10 minute walks on flat surfaces, avoid uneven sidewalks and crowded trains Day 5 onward: Gradually […]
SI Joint Pain vs. Lower Back Pain: How NYC Residents Can Tell the Difference
TLDR Pain near your lower back or buttocks does not automatically mean a spine problem. Here is what to know right now: SI joint pain is almost always one sided, near the lower back dimples, and rarely travels below the knee Lower back pain from the spine often shoots down the leg, past the knee […]
SI Joint Fusion FAQs: The Questions New Yorkers Actually Ask
TLDR Considering SI joint fusion and have questions beyond the surgery itself? Here is what NYC patients ask most: Modern iFuse fusion is minimally invasive, about 1 hour, often no overnight hospital stay Yes, the implant can trigger metal detectors. Carry a TSA card and allow extra time High heels are okay in moderation after […]