Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive treatment option for people living with chronic pain that hasn't improved with other care. A small implanted device sends mild electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals can change the way pain messages travel to the brain, which may help reduce the pain you feel.

At Spine & Orthopedic Center, spinal cord stimulation is one of several advanced pain management options we offer. It does not cure the underlying condition, but for the right patient, it may help reduce pain, improve daily function, and lessen reliance on pain medication.

One of the biggest advantages of spinal cord stimulation is that you can try it first. A short trial lets you and your physician see how well it works for you before deciding on a long-term device.

Conditions Spinal Cord Stimulation May Help Treat

Spinal cord stimulation is most often considered for chronic nerve-related pain in the back, legs, or arms. Conditions it may help manage include:

• Persistent back or leg pain after spine surgery
• Chronic low back pain
• Sciatica and radiculopathy (pain that travels along a nerve)
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Chronic neck and arm pain

Spinal cord stimulation at SOC is performed by fellowship-trained spine surgeon Dr. Ashish Sahai and fellowship-trained pain management physician Dr. Kristy Fisher. Your physician will review your diagnosis, imaging, and treatment history to determine whether spinal cord stimulation may be appropriate for you.

How Does a Spinal Cord Stimulator Work?

A spinal cord stimulation system has three main parts:

• Leads: Thin, flexible wires placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord. They deliver the electrical signals.
• Generator: A small battery-powered device, about the size of a stopwatch, placed under the skin. It powers the system.
• Remote control: A handheld device or app that lets you adjust settings or turn the system on and off.

The signals interrupt or mask pain messages before they reach the brain. Depending on the system and settings, some patients feel a gentle tingling sensation, while others feel little or no sensation at all. Your care team will help program the device for your needs and comfort.

Types of Spinal Cord Stimulation

• Dorsal column stimulation: The most common type. The leads are placed along the back of the spinal cord to help manage pain across larger areas, such as the back and legs.
• Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation: A more targeted approach. The leads are placed near the dorsal root ganglion, a cluster of nerve cells along the spine, to help manage pain in a specific area, such as the foot, knee, or groin.

Your physician will recommend the approach that best fits the location and type of your paain.

Who is a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation may be an option if:

• You have had chronic pain for several months or longer
• Conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections have not provided enough relief
• You are not a candidate for additional surgery, or you would like to explore other options first
• Your pain is affecting your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy daily activities

Before moving forward, your doctor will complete a thorough evaluation. Many insurance plans also require a behavioral health evaluation before a trial. This is a standard step that helps make sure spinal cord stimulation is a good fit for you.

What to Expect with Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation happens in two steps: a short trial, then a permanent implant if the trial goes well.

• Step 1: The Trial: A temporary system is placed during a quick outpatient procedure using X-ray guidance. You wear a small external device for about a week while following your normal routine. If your pain and daily function meaningfully improve, you and your physician may discuss a permanent system.
• Step 2: The Permanent Implant: The permanent system is placed during a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, and most patients go home the same day. The generator sits under the skin, and your care team will program the device and show you how to use it.

Recovery

Most patients return to light activities within a few days. For several weeks, you will avoid bending, twisting, and heavy lifting while the leads settle. Your care team will give you specific instructions.

Related Treatments

• Epidural Steroid Injections
• Radiofrequency Neuroablation
• Facet Joint Injections
• Kyphoplasty
• Intracept® Procedure
• Physical Therapy

Explore Your Options for Chronic Pain Relief

If chronic pain is keeping you from the life you want, our team is here to help you understand your options. Request an appointment online or call (561) 549-9090 to schedule a consultation.