Spinal Cord Stimulation: A Revolutionary Approach to Chronic Pain Management

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Nerve Pain and Neuropathy

Chronic pain can be debilitating, making daily activities difficult and significantly reducing quality of life. For patients who have not found relief with medications, physical therapy, or other interventions, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers an advanced, minimally invasive solution to manage chronic pain effectively.

At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in state-of-the-art pain management treatments, including spinal cord stimulation, to help patients regain control over their lives and experience long-term pain relief.

What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a procedure that uses a small, implantable device to send mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, blocking pain signals before they reach the brain. By modifying the way pain is perceived, SCS can provide significant relief for patients with chronic nerve pain, failed back surgery syndrome, and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

SCS is often recommended for patients who have tried other treatments without success and want a non-surgical, drug-free option for pain relief.

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

Who Can Benefit from Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation is an effective treatment for conditions such as:

• Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) – Persistent pain after spine surgery
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – Severe nerve pain in the limbs
• Neuropathy – Chronic nerve pain that does not respond to medications
• Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, causing nerve pain
• Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) – Poor circulation leading to chronic pain
• Post-Surgical Nerve Pain – Pain that persists after back, neck, or joint surgery

If you have chronic pain that has not improved with medications, injections, or physical therapy, spinal cord stimulation may be an option.

Explore other non-surgical pain management solutions.

How is Spinal Cord Stimulation Performed?

Spinal cord stimulation is a two-step process:

Step 1: Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial

• A temporary stimulator is placed through a minimally invasive procedure.
• The patient tests the device for 5-7 days to determine if it provides significant pain relief.
• If the trial is successful, a permanent stimulator can be implanted.

Step 2: Permanent Implantation

• A small generator is implanted under the skin, usually in the lower back.
• Thin electrical leads are positioned near the spinal cord.
• The patient can adjust stimulation levels using a handheld remote.

Most patients can return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.

Learn about other advanced spinal pain treatments.

What to Expect After Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Most patients experience significant pain relief immediately after the device is activated. Over time, many patients can reduce or eliminate their need for pain medications.

How Long Does Pain Relief Last?

• Spinal cord stimulators provide long-term pain relief, with many patients experiencing benefits for several years.
• Adjustments can be made to the device if pain patterns change.

Recovery Timeline

• First 24 hours: Mild soreness at the implantation site is normal.
• First week: Gradual improvement in pain levels.
• One to two weeks: Most patients return to light activities.

For long-term results, patients may be advised to combine SCS with physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation

• Long-term pain relief for chronic nerve conditions
• Minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time
• Reduces reliance on opioid pain medications
• Adjustable and customizable pain relief
• Can be tested with a trial before permanent implantation

Read about other interventional pain management techniques.

Long-Term Pain Management with Spinal Cord Stimulation

For best results, spinal cord stimulation is often combined with:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve posture
• Stretching and low-impact exercise to maintain mobility
• Follow-up pain management treatments to ensure continued relief

If pain persists or changes over time, the spinal cord stimulator can be reprogrammed to better target pain areas.

Learn about radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a spinal cord stimulator work?

A small device sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, blocking pain signals before they reach the brain.

How long does a spinal cord stimulator last?

The implanted device lasts five to ten years before needing a battery replacement.

Can a spinal cord stimulator be removed?

Yes, the device can be removed if needed. It is not a permanent alteration to the spinal cord.

Is spinal cord stimulation covered by insurance?

Most insurance providers cover SCS for chronic pain. Our team can assist with insurance verification.

Why Choose Ascend Pain & Wellness for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we offer cutting-edge pain management solutions to help patients achieve lasting relief. Our expert pain specialists ensure that each treatment is tailored to the patient’s condition.

• Experienced specialists trained in spinal cord stimulator procedures
• Advanced imaging technology for precise placement
• Comprehensive pain management plans customized to each patient

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If chronic pain is interfering with your quality of life, spinal cord stimulation may be the solution. Contact Ascend Pain & Wellness today to schedule a consultation.

Call (708) 550-7005 or visit our website for more information.

Related Resources

• Pain Therapy Treatments
• Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Pain
• Medial Branch Block for Nerve Pain
• Meet Our Specialists

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