What is Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation is one option for the treatment of chronic back pain. The treatment uses electrical impulses to control pain. For spinal cord stimulation, you will have a stimulation device implanted into your body, so that you can perform the therapy over an extended period of time.

The Concept

Your nerves send impulses which are interpreted as pain by the brain. To stimulate the spinal cord, leads are placed next to the nerves in the affected part of the spine. An electrical current is sent through the leads, which interrupts the transmission of pain impulses to brain. This can relieve pain. 

Implantation

The stimulator is usually implanted in an outpatient procedure. First, a temporary stimulator is placed to test the device. Then, a permanent stimulator is implanted in the abdomen, with the leads reaching back to the spinal canal.

The procedure is a very minor one, and the recovery time should be relatively short. You'll have a small incision, which you will need to keep clean until it heals. You may also be unable to perform physically strenuous activities for some period of time, but that period is generally not lengthy.

Your doctor will give you information on how and when to use he stimulator. You can expect to use it for 1-2 hours, 3-4 times a day. While in use, you may feel a tingling sensation, but should not feel pain.

Who is a Candidate?

Spinal cord stimulation, though effective, is not without risks and downsides. Therefore, it is not the first course of treatment for back pain. Your doctor will recommend conservative treatments before considering spinal cord stimulation. The procedure is generally used for very stubborn cases, such as instances where pain continues even after surgical treatment.

Only a doctor can tell you whether or not you are a candidate for this treatment. The decision will be made based on your medical history, your symptoms, and how you've responded to past treatments for your back pain.

To schedule a consultation about whether spinal cord stimulation is right for you, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.