The Origins of Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (tSCS)

Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (TSCS) is an emerging technique gaining interest in neurorehabilitation, but its origins go back further than many people realise. This article explores how TSCS developed, the early ideas and research that helped shape it, and why it has become an important area of focus today. A helpful overview for anyone looking to understand where TSCS came from and how it has evolved into the approach being explored in modern clinical practice.

Read More
tSCS, Electrotherapy Derek Jones tSCS, Electrotherapy Derek Jones

Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (tSCS) - An Introduction for Non-Clinicians

This article provides an overview of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS), a non-invasive spinal stimulation therapy used in neurorehabilitation to support spasticity reduction, neuropathic pain management, and rehabilitation alongside therapy. It explains how tSCS works, reviews current research evidence, outlines safety considerations, and explores the growing availability of commercial tSCS devices for clinical and home-based use.

Read More
tSCS, Electrotherapy Derek Jones tSCS, Electrotherapy Derek Jones

Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation: What Patients Need to Know

This article explains transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS), a non-surgical approach that is generating significant interest in the spinal cord injury community. We'll explore what it is, how it differs from implanted stimulation, what the current research shows - including applications for pain and spasticity management - and what questions you might want to discuss with your clinical team.

Read More

Are there any long-term studies on the safety of electrical stimulation for patients with metal implants?

All medical devices have indications and contraindications, and the manufacturer always states these clearly. However, not all electrical stimulation devices on the market are classified as medical devices, so the manufacturer may not clearly describe when they might be unsafe to use.

A very common situation we face when dealing with clients is the presence of metal implants such as joint replacements, fracture fixation plates and spinal instrumentation near where we wish to apply electrodes. The concern has been that the energy generated by electrical stimulation over metal implants would cause local, damaging heating within the tissues. We consider this below.

We must follow the manufacturer's recommendations. However, you might wonder about the real risks. Do the benefits of using electrical stimulation outweigh the risks? This article explores this topic.

Read More

Electrical stimulation can condition muscles or help with pain. How do the techniques differ?

Electrical stimulation is a widely used method of applying energy to the body to produce a physiological response. By controlling the nature of this energy, we can expect to produce a useful therapeutic effect. These ideas have decades of practical use and are generally safe and effective in many situations. Still, it can be difficult to understand how to match one of the many techniques to a particular clinical case. This article delves into methodologies and technologies for pain management and muscle rehabilitation. We explore innovative solutions that offer customised and effective treatment plans, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

Read More