Spinal Cord Stimulator Specialist

What is a spinal cord stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator is a device used to mask pain signals in your spinal cord. The stimulator contains programmable electrodes that your doctor connects to your spine. The electrodes can be engaged through a handheld programming device when you experience pain.

Your doctor may recommend the implantation of a spinal cord stimulator if other pain management therapies don’t provide you with relief.

How does a spinal cord stimulator work?

If your doctor recommends a spinal cord stimulator, you undergo a placement trial for several days to ensure the treatment effectively addresses your pain. With the help of an X-ray, your surgeon places electrodes along your spine. They program the device to provide pain relief based on your needs.

The procedure takes approximately 60 minutes. Then, for 3-5 days, you test the stimulation system to determine how it’s affecting your pain and if it’s improving your functionality. After the trial, your specialist removes the wires.

Following a successful trial, your surgeon schedules a surgical implantation appointment at a local hospital. Placement is a same-day surgical procedure, and you can expect to go home after a few hours if you experience no complications.

What are the benefits of a spinal cord stimulator?

The doctors at Advanced Spine and Pain Center use spinal cord stimulation to reduce your pain levels and improve your quality of life. The procedure is safe and effective in treating a variety of spine-related conditions.

Benefits of spinal cord stimulation include:

• Reduced need for medication
• Programmable pain relief options
• Proven success rates
• Reversible procedure

Your doctor continues to monitor your progress using the spinal stimulator through follow-up appointments. If you find the stimulator is not improving your pain, the system is removable, and your doctor can explore other treatment options.

Who can benefit from spinal cord stimulation?

Your doctor may recommend spinal cord stimulation if you suffer from the following conditions:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Epidural fibrosis
• Failed back surgery syndrome
• Neuralgia or neuritis
• Radicular pain syndrome
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Arachnoiditis

Spinal cord stimulation may also effectively treat other spine-related conditions, and you can discuss your medical situation with your doctor.

If you think a spinal cord stimulator may be right for you, schedule a consultation online now.