Spinal Cord Stimulation

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation is a method of managing chronic pain when other treatments prove unsuccessful. It uses a technology called neuromodulation that reduces pain by interfering with the way nerves in your spine transmit pain signals to your brain.

The spinal cord stimulator device is an implantable unit that sends mild electrical impulses to the nerves. Instead of perceiving pain, your brain detects a tingling or "pins and needles" sensation called paresthesia or, with newer types of spinal cord stimulation, no sensations at all.

The spinal cord stimulator fits under the skin on your buttocks or abdomen. You control it using a remote handpiece, adjusting the signal to increase or decrease its strength and speed.

What conditions can spinal cord stimulation treat?

Spinal cord stimulation can treat a variety of chronic pain conditions, including:

• Failed back surgery syndrome
• Spinal cord injuries
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Neuropathy
• Sciatica
• Arachnoiditis (nerve lining inflammation and scarring)
  
  

Other conditions like spinal stenosis that cause chronic back and leg pain are also treatable using spinal cord stimulation if options like Vertiflex™ intervertebral spacers aren't suitable or don't relieve your pain.

If Dr. Attias believes you're a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation, he offers you a trial to see whether the device is helpful in improving your comfort levels.

What does a spinal cord stimulation trial involve?

For the spinal cord stimulation trial, you undergo a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Attias inserts temporary wires in your back that attach to a portable generator. You can adjust the intensity of the electrical signals to match the level of pain you're experiencing.

After about a week, you report back to Dr. Attias on the effectiveness of the trial. If you found it beneficial, you can undergo a permanent implantation procedure.

What does permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation involve?

Permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation involves Dr. Attias replacing the temporary leads and inserting a small, permanent generator under your skin. Implantation is typically an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day in most cases.

It takes about 10 days to recover from permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation. Although the device is suitable for long-term use, if there are any problems, Dr. Attias can remove it.

Find out more about spinal cord stimulation and how it could help you overcome treatment-resistant chronic pain at a consultation with Dr. Attias. Call Ohmedica Joint and Spine Health Specialists or book an appointment online today.