Spinal Cord Stimulator

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is an implantable device that delivers low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord to reduce chronic pain. Spinal cord stimulation is typically recommended for patients with severe, persistent pain who have not improved with conservative treatments, injections, or surgery.

By modifying pain signals before they reach the brain, spinal cord stimulation can significantly improve quality of life and reduce reliance on opioid medications.

What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator system consists of:

  1. Thin electrodes (leads) placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord
  2. A small pulse generator implanted under the skin
  3. A remote control used by the patient to adjust stimulation settings

The device sends controlled electrical impulses that interfere with pain signal transmission along the spinal cord.

How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works

A spinal cord stimulator system consists of:

  1. Thin electrodes (leads) placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord
  2. A small pulse generator implanted under the skin
  3. A remote control used by the patient to adjust stimulation settings

The device sends controlled electrical impulses that interfere with pain signal transmission along the spinal cord.

Conditions Treated

Spinal cord stimulators are effective for:

  • Failed back surgery syndrome
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Type I and II
  • Chronic neuropathic pain
  • Arachnoiditis
  • Post-surgical spine pain
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Pain after amputation (phantom limb pain)
  • Spinal cord injury–related pain
  • Visceral abdominal pain
  • Perineal pain
  • Refractory angina (chronic heart-related chest pain)

Spinal cord stimulation is most commonly used for failed back surgery syndrome and CRPS.

Symptoms of Upper Cervical Joint Dysfunction

You may be a candidate if you:

  • Have chronic pain lasting more than 12 weeks
  • Have failed conservative treatments and injections
  • Have persistent pain after spine surgery
  • Have CRPS or neuropathic pain
  • Have pain not amenable to further surgery
  • Seek to reduce long-term opioid use

A psychological evaluation and successful trial stimulation are typically required before permanent implantation.

Table of Contents

How the Procedure Is Performed

Spinal cord stimulation is typically completed in two stages: a trial phase and permanent implantation.

1. Trial Phase

  1. Leads are placed in the epidural space under fluoroscopic guidance.
  2. The leads are connected to an external generator.
  3. The trial lasts several days to evaluate pain relief.

If significant pain reduction occurs, permanent implantation is considered.

2. Permanent Implantation

  1. The electrodes are positioned near the spinal cord.
  2. The pulse generator is implanted under the skin, usually near the buttocks or abdomen.
  3. The system is programmed and adjusted for optimal pain control.

Patients can control stimulation levels using a handheld remote.

Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation

  • Significant reduction in chronic pain
  • Reduced dependence on pain medication
  • Improved sleep and daily function
  • Reversible and adjustable therapy
  • Minimally invasive compared to open surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions can a spinal cord stimulator treat?

It is commonly used for chronic back and leg pain, failed back surgery syndrome, neuropathic pain, and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

The device delivers electrical impulses through thin wires placed near the spinal cord, altering how pain signals are perceived.

The process starts with a trial period. A temporary device is used first to see if it reduces pain before a permanent implant is placed.

Many patients experience significant pain reduction, often 50% or more, depending on the condition and proper patient selection.

Begin your journey to recovery.

Reach out to our specialists to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll carefully review your symptoms and match you with the right expert for your specific condition.

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infor@urbanspinejoint.com