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Date sent: Thu, 19 Oct 2000 02:15:25 EDT Send reply to: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network <[log in to unmask]> From: Sid Levin <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Re: Pain management - sciatic nerve problems To: [log in to unmask] > Hillary, at one time, my oldest son and I manufactured a device that > would (for some) stop the pain. It is known as a TENS (Transcutaneous > Electronic Nerve Stimulator). It is the size of a transistor radio > with electrodes that are placed over the pain area or across the base > of the spine. Patient success varied, but the single biggest factor > for success in sciatic nerve cases was the willingness of the Doctor > or Therapist to carefully teach the patient. We've been out of that > business for 15 years, but it was (and maybe still is) Medicare > approved. The company that bought us out, sold that division so I > don't know where to recommend you go to try it. Good Luck Sid Levin TENS units are still widely used in medicine (I use them for my patients). The key, as Sid states, is proper instruction for the patient so that they are used properly. They are usually Medicare-approved. TENS units, however, are best used for pure "pain syndromes"; that is, pain caused by problems which are otherwise not treatable. In the case of disc disease, the best treatment is modified bed rest, back bracing, some PT; and, if all fails, surgery. About 85% of patients with disc problems will be helped without surgery, the other 15% will need to be operated on. Best, Bob ********************************************** Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S., P. C. 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 Telephone: 510-849-2555 FAX: 510-849-2557 WWW: http://www.dovecom.com/rafink/ mailto:[log in to unmask] "Ex Tristitia Virtus" *********************************************