Peripheral vascular Disease (PVD) is characterized by atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) of the arteries of the lower limbs. PVD affects about 10-15% of the entire U.S. population. Common risk factors include:
A common early symptom is intermittent claudication, which typically presents as pain induced by exercise. Cramping and discomfort in the buttock, hip, thigh, calf, and foot that is relieved by rest is a key indicator of vascular claudication.
Treatment
The goals of treatment for patients with PVD are to relieve claudication, improve walking capabilities, and improve quality of life. Physical therapy has shown benefits by increasing the flow of blood into the affected extremities and is offered here at Advanced Pain Management Center on the second floor.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is quite effective in relieving symptoms caused by claudication and increasing circulation through vasodilation (widening) of blood vessels. SCS was first established as an effective treatment for PVD in the 1970’s. It is the most promising neuromodulatory treatment for ischemic pain (pain caused by lack of blood flow).
At Advanced Pain Management Center, Dr. Vladimir Fiks offers minimally invasive SCS treatment which can be very effective in relieving symptoms associated with Peripheral Vascular Disease.
A spinal cord stimulator is a small device that is surgically placed under the skin (typically in the buttock area) that sends mild electric currents to your spinal cord. Under X-ray guidance, thin wires are placed in the epidural space that correspond with the dermatome of the effected extremity. Typically a 2 week trial is first conducted in which the patient is able to determine for themselves whether they gain enough relief from the treatment. If relief of over 50% is established, the implantation can proceed. Patients are able to go home the day of the procedure and full recovery time typically takes 6-8 weeks.
Do not let PVD get in the way of the things you love. Contact our office for evaluation and appropriate treatment. We will identify options available to you and if necessary refer to other specialists as needed. If you would like to learn more about Spinal Cord Stimulation please visit our website or follow this link.
