Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Evaluation | Center for NeuroWellness

Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations: Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Implantation

Comprehensive Assessment for Enhanced Surgical Outcomes

The Center for NeuroWellness specializes in providing presurgical psychological evaluations for individuals considering spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implantation. Our comprehensive assessments aim to optimize surgical outcomes, promote psychological well-being, and ensure informed decision-making throughout the treatment process.

Presurgical psychological evaluations are an essential component of the SCS implantation journey. During the evaluation, we conduct a thorough assessment of various psychological factors, including:

1. Emotional Well-Being: We evaluate your emotional health, assessing factors such as depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Understanding your emotional state is crucial for ensuring that you have the necessary support and coping strategies in place for the surgical process.

2. Pain Management: Chronic pain can have a significant impact on your quality of life. Our evaluations explore your pain experience, previous treatments, and coping mechanisms to help determine the potential benefits of an SCS in managing your pain.

3. Treatment Expectations: We discuss your expectations, goals, and understanding of the SCS procedure. This enables us to align your expectations with the potential outcomes and ensure that you have realistic expectations of the intervention.

4. Coping Strategies and Support Systems: We assess your current coping strategies, social support systems, and overall resilience to help identify potential areas of strength and areas that may benefit from additional support during the surgical and recovery process.

The results of the evaluation provide valuable information to your healthcare team, including your surgeon and pain management specialist. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of your physical and psychological well-being are considered, leading to a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

At the Center for NeuroWellness, we understand the importance of holistic care and the impact that psychological factors can have on your overall surgical experience and pain management outcomes. Our dedicated team is committed to providing a supportive environment, offering you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and receive personalized recommendations to optimize your presurgical experience.

What will the evaluation involve?

The psychological evaluation consists of two paper-and-pencil tests, questionnaires, a computerized psychological test, and an interview. The tests will help the neuropsychologist learn about you as a person. During the interview, you will be asked about many aspects of your life, including information about your past, your present situation, and your future goals.

Can I fail the test?

The tests that you will be asked to complete are not pass-fail tests and there is no preparation necessary prior to taking the test. The testing helps the neuropsychologist identify your strengths and any areas that need to be addressed prior to or following surgery.

A psychological evaluation involves an interview and psychological testing by a neuropsychologist or health psychologist.
Your doctor understands that you have a legitimate injury and that your pain is real.
A psychological evaluation allows you the opportunity to discuss any concerns about medicine, treatment, or surgery. Psychological evaluations are supportive. They provide an opportunity to discuss emotional, marital, occupational, or other issues related to pain or injury.

If you or a loved one is considering SCS implantation, contact the Center for NeuroWellness today to schedule a presurgical psychological evaluation. Let us guide you through this important step in your journey towards enhanced well-being and improved quality of life.

Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations: Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Implantation

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