Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation: Advanced Pain Relief for Complex Nerve Conditions

Doctor and patient

Chronic pain from nerve-related conditions can be challenging to manage, often limiting daily activities and reducing overall quality of life. Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation is an innovative, minimally invasive treatment designed to target nerve pain with precision. At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in advanced interventional pain management treatments like DRG Stimulation to help patients regain function and long-term relief.

What is Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation?

DRG Stimulation is a neuromodulation therapy that targets specific nerves within the dorsal root ganglion, a cluster of sensory nerve cells near the spinal cord. These nerves play a crucial role in transmitting pain signals from different parts of the body to the brain. By using a small implanted device to deliver mild electrical impulses, DRG Stimulation can interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, significantly reducing chronic pain.

This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS), nerve pain after surgery, post-amputation pain, and other treatment-resistant nerve conditions. Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulators, DRG Stimulation provides highly targeted relief, making it a preferred option for pain that is localized to a specific region.

Learn more about pain therapy treatments at Ascend Pain & Wellness.

Who Can Benefit from DRG Stimulation?

Patients who suffer from chronic nerve pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections may be candidates for DRG Stimulation. It is especially effective for pain in the lower limbs, groin, or post-surgical areas where standard treatments have been unsuccessful.

A consultation with a pain management specialist will determine whether this therapy is appropriate based on medical history, diagnostic tests, and the location of pain. Patients who have tried traditional spinal cord stimulation but found it ineffective may also be ideal candidates for DRG Stimulation.

Explore other non-surgical pain treatments for nerve pain relief.

How Does the DRG Stimulation Procedure Work?

Trial Phase: Temporary Device Placement

Before undergoing permanent implantation, patients typically go through a trial phase lasting about one week. During this time, a temporary DRG stimulator is placed near the affected nerves to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing pain.

If the trial proves successful, a permanent device can be implanted for long-term pain relief.

Permanent Implantation Procedure

The permanent implantation of a DRG stimulator is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia and mild sedation. A small pulse generator is implanted near the spine, with tiny leads placed near the dorsal root ganglion nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. Once in place, the device is programmed to deliver electrical impulses that modulate pain perception without the use of medications.

Patients can control the level of stimulation using an external remote, adjusting it based on daily activities and comfort levels. Most patients experience significant pain reduction within a few days of activation.

Learn more about spinal cord stimulation and related therapies.

Benefits of DRG Stimulation

Unlike conventional pain treatments, DRG Stimulation provides highly targeted relief, reducing pain in areas that are difficult to treat with other methods.

  • Minimally invasive with a short recovery period
  • Personalized pain management with adjustable stimulation settings
  • Long-term relief for chronic nerve-related pain
  • Reduced reliance on opioid pain medications

Many patients who have undergone DRG Stimulation report a dramatic improvement in mobility and daily function, allowing them to return to activities that were previously too painful.

Read about other advanced pain management techniques.

Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

Following the procedure, most patients return home the same day and resume light activities within a week. The implanted device is customized to each patient’s pain pattern, allowing adjustments over time to optimize relief.

Regular follow-up visits ensure that the device remains effective and properly programmed. Some patients require occasional reprogramming to maintain optimal pain control. Unlike temporary treatments, DRG Stimulation can provide lasting relief for years, significantly improving quality of life.

For those seeking an alternative to traditional spinal cord stimulation or medication-based pain management, DRG Stimulation offers a long-term solution without major surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see results?

Most patients notice a significant reduction in pain within a few days after activation of the device. Pain relief continues to improve over the first few weeks as the body adjusts to the stimulation.

Is the procedure covered by insurance?

Many insurance providers cover DRG Stimulation for chronic pain conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments. Our team will verify your benefits and assist with the approval process.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Like any procedure, DRG Stimulation carries some risks, including minor discomfort at the implant site, infection, or lead migration. However, complications are rare, and most patients tolerate the treatment well.

How does DRG Stimulation compare to traditional spinal cord stimulation?

While both therapies use electrical stimulation to control pain, DRG Stimulation offers more targeted pain relief, making it especially effective for pain in the lower limbs, pelvis, and post-surgical areas.

Why Choose Ascend Pain & Wellness for DRG Stimulation?

Ascend Pain & Wellness is a leader in interventional pain management, offering cutting-edge treatments for chronic pain. Our team specializes in neuromodulation therapies like DRG Stimulation, ensuring patients receive the most effective, personalized pain relief options available.

  • Expert pain specialists trained in advanced neuromodulation techniques
  • State-of-the-art technology for precise, effective pain relief
  • Comprehensive pain management approach for long-term wellness

Schedule a Consultation TodayIf chronic nerve pain is affecting your quality of life, Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation may provide the relief you need.

Contact Ascend Pain & Wellness today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.Call (708) 550-7005 or visit our website to learn more.

Related Resources

We'd love to help

To schedule your consultation, please BOOK ONLINE or call (708) 550-7005.

Ascend Pain & Wellness
Call Us
(847) 903-2001