Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is implantable technology for the treatment of chronic, intractable pain. It works by delivering electrical impulses, and provides relief by altering the pain signals before they reach the brain. You are able to adjust the strength and area of stimulation using a remote control. When SCS is successful, it should provide significant long term relief, reduce the need for pain medications, and improve function. To determine if you are a good candidate for SCS therapy and permanent implantation, a SCS temporary testing period of the device will be performed first. The opportunity to non-surgically temporarily see if you achieve improvement lasts up to a week and will help determine if this is the right treatment for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation may be considered for people living with chronic, intractable pain. Because responses to SCS vary, we recommend a temporary trial before permanent implantation to determine whether the therapy provides meaningful improvement for you.
What Happens During a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial?
The trial lets you test spinal cord stimulation without permanent implantation. During this period, which can last up to a week, you can evaluate how well the stimulation helps manage your pain and improves your function.
How Do I Know if My Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Is Successful?
A successful trial should provide meaningful improvement in your pain and function. Your response during the temporary testing period helps determine whether permanent implantation is appropriate.
What Happens if the Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Does Not Help My Pain?
If you do not experience sufficient improvement during the trial, permanent implantation may not be the right treatment for you. The temporary testing period helps make that determination before you commit to an implanted device.
What Happens After a Successful Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial?
If the temporary trial provides meaningful improvement, your response can help determine whether you are a good candidate for permanent implantation. Your provider will discuss the next steps based on how well the therapy worked for you.
Will I Still Need Pain Medication After Spinal Cord Stimulation?
One goal of successful spinal cord stimulation is to reduce the need for pain medication while providing long-term pain relief and improving function. Individual results vary, so make any medication changes with your medical provider.
Can I Adjust My Spinal Cord Stimulator Myself?
Yes. Spinal cord stimulation systems include a remote control that allows you to adjust the strength and area of stimulation. Your care team can provide instructions on using these controls appropriately.
If you would like more information about Treatments or to schedule an appointment, feel free to fill out our convenient contact form or call us directly at 760-941-7336.
