Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objective. To determine the effect of electrical stimulation of hamstrings and L3/4 dermatome on the swing phase of gait. Materials and Methods. Five subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) with spasticity were included. Two electrical stimulation methods were investigated, i.e., hamstrings and L3/4 dermatome stimulation. ⋯ Conclusion. It was concluded that hamstrings stimulation during the swing phase results in a reduction of the hip flexion in all five SCI subjects. The H/M ratio of the vastus lateralis was normalized using hamstrings stimulation in one of three subjects. Stimulation of the L3/4 dermatome provides no significant changes in gait performance, but in one subject the H/M ratio increased.
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Ziconotide is an N-type calcium channel (NCC) blocking conopeptide, acting primarily at the NCC-rich dorsal horn. Reported here is an early experience with intrathecal ziconotide in a 55-year-old man with chronic pain resulting from failed back surgery. ⋯ The dosing regimen, onset and resolution of adverse events, and improvement on the primary efficacy measure, the Visual Analog Scale of Pain Intensity, are discussed. Overall, the patient responded positively to ziconotide.
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Objective. The aim of this study was to examine the hypothesis that subcutaneous occipital stimulation influences pain due to occipital neuralgia. Materials and Methods. Between 2001 and 2004 eight patients with intractable occipital neuralgia were referred to our center. Their records were reviewed. ⋯ The total quantity of opiates taken after implantation showed a marked reduction. Of the seven who had a permanent implant two acquired full-time employment. Conclusion. Occipital neuralgia is a useful and reversible treatment for intractable occipital neuralgia.