SCS and Psychological Readiness
What Does the Evaluation Involve?
Psychological evaluation typically involves simple questionnaires and a brief interview.
Common Assessment Tools
| Tool | What It Measures | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory) | Severity of depressive symptoms | 5-10 minutes |
| PCS (Pain Catastrophizing Scale) | Thinking patterns about pain | 5 minutes |
| Clinical interview | Overall psychological state, impact on daily life | 10-15 minutes |
What Happens Based on the Results
| Result | What It Means | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| No significant psychological concerns | Proceed with SCS treatment planning | Continue as planned |
| Mild concerns identified | SCS is still possible; additional support may be considered | Receive psychological support alongside treatment |
| Moderate or greater concerns | Best to address mental health first | Counseling or treatment is provided first; SCS is reconsidered once your condition improves |
There is no "pass" or "fail." If psychological concerns are identified, that information is used to optimize the timing of your SCS treatment. Addressing these concerns first leads to significantly better outcomes.