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Spinal cord stimulation is a treatment that uses a small device to send mild electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals can change how the brain receives pain messages from the body. The device, often called a spinal cord stimulator, sits under the skin and connects to thin wires near the spine. Many people discuss this option when other treatments have not given them the relief they hoped for. Here’s information on when the treatment is used, how it works, and what you may experience along the way:
When Is It Recommended?
Doctors often suggest spinal cord stimulation for people with long-lasting pain that has not improved with other care, especially for pain in the back, legs, arms, or neck. It is also recommended for nerve pain or pain that remains after surgery. Before recommending it, your doctor will review your medical history, past treatments, and current symptoms. This is done to help your provider understand the source of your pain and decide if this approach fits your needs. This option is explored after medicines, physical therapy, or other methods have been tried first.
How Is It Done?
The spinal stimulation process occurs in two treatment stages because a trial period is necessary. This allows your doctor to see how your body responds to this type of stimulation, helping them determine if this method is appropriate for you in the long term. The first stage is the trial test, where your doctor places thin wires near your spine. These wires connect to a small device you wear outside your body.
During this first stage, your provider tests how the stimulation feels and whether it helps reduce your pain. The trial often lasts about a week, and you keep notes on how you feel each day. If the trial works well, your doctor will suggest a permanent device. During this second treatment step, the wires and a small generator are placed under your skin in a minimally invasive procedure. The generator contains a battery that powers the signals used to interrupt communication between the body and the brain. After placement, your doctor adjusts the settings so the stimulation level matches your needs.
What Can You Expect?
After the permanent device placement, you may feel some soreness near the area where the device was placed. Recovery time varies from person to person. Most people are told to avoid heavy lifting and certain movements for a few weeks to allow the treatment area to heal. You and your care team will fine-tune the device settings for your pain. You can often control the stimulation with a small remote, and this lets you adjust the signals during daily activities.
Regular check-ins with your doctor help track your progress and make any needed changes. The way the treatment works can shift as your body adapts, so your doctor will need to update the settings during follow-up visits. Battery life also matters, and there are two main setups for spinal cord stimulation:
- Charging Devices
- Battery Pack Devices
Some devices need charging while others are replaced after several years. Your care team will explain how to care for your specific device. The goal is to manage pain so you can take part in more daily activities, but results differ for each person.
Try Spinal Cord Stimulation
If long-lasting pain affects your daily life, spinal cord stimulation may be worth discussing with a medical professional. A doctor can review your situation and explain whether this option fits your needs. Contact a pain specialist today, as they can determine which treatments are most effective for your condition.
