Austin Training Entrance Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary reason that a patient with intermittent aching pain relieved by sitting is not a good candidate for neurostimulation is that the pain is primarily mechanical. Neurostimulation, such as spinal cord stimulation, is typically used for pain conditions that are neuropathic in nature, meaning they arise from nerve damage or dysfunction. Mechanical pain usually stems from issues related to the musculoskeletal system, such as arthritis or injury, and is often influenced by factors like posture, movement, and physical activity.

In this scenario, the intermittent nature and the relief obtained from sitting suggest that the pain is likely due to mechanical factors rather than a problem with nerve pathways. Mechanical pain tends to respond well to activity modifications, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments, making neurostimulation less applicable or effective in such cases. Thus, individuals with mechanical pain are generally not ideal candidates for neurostimulation therapies that are designed for more complex or persistent pain conditions.