What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation? A Real Solution for Chronic Pain Relief
If you've been searching for long-term relief from chronic pain, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) might be the breakthrough you've been looking for. This innovative, minimally invasive treatment is changing lives—especially for people who haven't found success with other therapies.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is a procedure that uses gentle electrical pulses to interrupt pain signals traveling through the spinal cord to the brain. By implanting a small device near the spine, SCS can significantly reduce pain caused by nerve damage, injury, or surgery—often without the need for long-term opioids.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Painful?
Many patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. The initial trial phase is temporary and performed under local anesthesia. Most people describe the stimulation as a mild tingling or buzzing sensation, not pain. The goal of spinal cord stimulation is to reduce pain—not cause it.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Scary?
It's normal to feel nervous about any procedure, but SCS is a well-established and safe treatment used by thousands of patients worldwide. At InterSpine Pain and Wellness Center, we walk you through every step—from consultation to recovery—with full support. You'll even test the device first in a trial phase before making any permanent decisions.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulators?
Spinal cord stimulators are often recommended for people with:
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)
- Chronic radicular pain (like sciatica)
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Neuropathic pain from diabetes, post-surgical injuries, or trauma
How Does the Spinal Cord Stimulator Work?
Trial Phase – Temporary wires (called leads) are placed near your spinal cord and connected to an external stimulator. You'll try it for a few days to see how much pain relief you get.
Permanent Implant – If the trial is successful (often defined as 50% or more pain relief), a long-term device is placed under the skin.
Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation
- Long-lasting relief from chronic nerve pain
- Better movement and quality of life
- Less dependence on medications
- Customizable settings for your unique pain patterns
- No visible scarring and minimal downtime
What Is Recovery Like After a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
Most patients return home the same day. You may have some soreness near the implant site, but recovery is generally quick. We'll provide you with full aftercare instructions and regular follow-ups. Many patients are back to normal activities within a few days.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Worth It?
Thousands of spinal cord stimulator success stories prove that this therapy can be life-changing. If you've tried injections, medications, or surgery without lasting relief, SCS could offer you a real chance at getting your life back.
