If you are one of the millions of people dealing with urinary incontinence, you know how it dictates your life. From mapping out bathrooms in downtown Decatur to worrying about leakage during a workout, bladder control issues are exhausting.
For years, patients with refractory urgency incontinence were often steered toward InterStim™ (Sacral Neuromodulation), a surgical implant often described as a “pacemaker for the bladder.” However, medical technology has evolved.
At Chandra Britt Armstrong MD, LLC, located conveniently at 1862 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032, we offer a modern, non-invasive breakthrough: the BTL Emsella. Here is why many of our patients are choosing the Emsella chair over surgical implants.
The Breakdown: What is the Difference?
To understand why Emsella is often the preferred starting point, we have to look at how these two treatments work.
- InterStim™ (Sacral Neuromodulation) InterStim is a surgical therapy. It involves placing electrodes near the sacral nerve roots (usually S3) and implanting a battery-operated generator into the buttock. The device sends continuous electrical pulses to modulate the nerves that control the bladder.
- The Reality: It requires a two-stage surgical process (a test phase followed by permanent implantation). It introduces a foreign object into your body and carries surgical risks.
- Emsella (HIFEM Technology) Emsella uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles directly.
- The Reality: You sit comfortably on a chair, fully clothed. The device induces supramaximal contractions—thousands of them in a single session—to strengthen the muscles that control the bladder.
4 Reasons Emsella is the Better Choice for Decatur Patients
- Zero Incisions vs. Surgical Implantation
The most significant difference is invasiveness. InterStim requires surgery to implant leads and a battery pack. With Emsella at Dr. Armstrong’s Wellness Clinic, there is absolutely no downtime.
- Emsella: You remain fully clothed. The procedure is non-invasive and painless, often described as a tingling sensation or strong muscle contraction. You can walk in and walk out the same day.
- InterStim: Involves surgical risks, potential for infection, and the discomfort of recovering from an implant procedure.
- Treating the Muscle vs. Masking the Signal
Incontinence is often caused by a weakened pelvic floor—the hammock of muscles supporting your bladder.
- Emsella acts as a super-workout: A single 28 to 30-minute session delivers the equivalent of 11,000 to 11,200 Kegel exercises. This physically strengthens the muscle fibers (hypertrophy) and creates new muscle strands (hyperplasia), addressing the root cause of the weakness.
- InterStim modulates nerves: It focuses on electrical pulses to calm the bladder nerves. While effective for some, it does not strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that are often necessary to hold back urine during physical activity (Stress Urinary Incontinence).
- Avoid the “Revision” Trap
One of the major downsides of surgical implants is that they often require maintenance or fixing.
- InterStim Revision Rates: Clinical data shows that surgical revision (going back into surgery to move or fix the device) is necessary in 33% to 41% of patients within just 3 to 4 years. Furthermore, adverse events occur in up to 50% of implanted cases.
- Emsella Safety: Emsella has a favorable safety profile with minimal side effects, typically limited to temporary muscle soreness or mild tingling. There are no batteries to replace and no leads that can migrate.
- Immediate Quality of Life Improvement
Emsella has demonstrated a 95% patient satisfaction rate. Studies show it leads to a significant reduction in pad usage—up to 75% less pad usage in some cases. By strengthening the pelvic floor, Emsella improves not just bladder control but can also enhance sexual health and intimate wellness.
Visit Chandra Britt Armstrong MD, LLC in Decatur
Why choose surgery as a first option when you can sit your way to a stronger pelvic floor? At our wellness clinic on Candler Road, we prioritize treatments that fit your busy lifestyle without the risks of surgery.
Emsella is ideal for:
- Men and women suffering from stress or urge incontinence.
- Mothers looking for post-partum recovery.
- Anyone seeking a non-invasive solution to avoid surgery.
Ready to say goodbye to bladder leaks? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and see if Emsella is right for you.
Chandra Britt Armstrong MD, LLC 📍 1862 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032 📞 (404) 289-4556 🌐 cbaclinic.com
Disclaimer: Emsella is not suitable for patients with pacemakers, metal implants, or those who are pregnant.
