Doctor hails 'life-changing' implant for back pain

Dr Simon Thomson said the innovative treatment had "transformed lives"

Patients suffering from back pain have enjoyed life-changing results thanks to a new implant, according to a doctor.

The treatment has been trialled at hospitals in Basildon and Orsett, Essex, ahead of an NHS-wide rollout.

It involves implanting electrical devices in the body, which stimulate nerves and block the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

"To help patients who were once told nothing more could be done is incredibly rewarding," said Dr Simon Thomson, of the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.

The 40 people to have received the treatment in Essex have been able to return home the same day.

A reduced need for long-term medication, repeat appointments and ongoing physiotherapy have been hailed as benefits.

Pain management teams have administered the treatment in Basildon and Orsett

Dr Thomson, a consultant in pain medicine and neuromodulation, said eight out of 10 patients enjoyed "greater freedom of movement" after being treated.

"The treatment has already transformed lives, from younger adults keen to stay active to older patients who have lived with pain for decades," he continued.

The implants were originally introduced as part of a research study, but have since been approved for wider use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

However, a potential drawback outlined on the NHS website suggested infection occurred in less than one in 20 patients.

Stuart, right, said receiving the treatment had helped him to better care for his partner, Peter

Stuart James, from Basildon, had to retire from work early due to back pain he suffered for more than 20 years.

"The pain was unbearable - I couldn't stand, walk or even wait for the bus," said the 81-year-old.

But after receiving the treatment, he added: "I was off painkillers, climbing stairs and even dancing again.

"This treatment has given me my life back."