Spinal cord stimulation
What is spinal cord stimulation?
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a technology that uses electricity to block pain signals.
- Spinal cord stimulation was developed in the 1960’s and has undergone a great deal of research and development since the first implantation in 1967
- The goal of SCS is to decrease the pain signals along the nerve, which may decrease pain.
- Common diseases treated include:
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Chronic back, arm and leg pain
- Back and leg pain after spine surgery
- Pelvic pain
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
What is the process?
- First, you’ll undergo a trial, which is an opportunity to “test drive” a spinal cord stimulator.
- For a trial, one or more insulated wire leads are inserted through a needle into the epidural space. The leads are connected an external battery you can wear.
- The leads are left in place for 5-7 days and then removed.
- If you have pain relief or improvement in your daily function during the trial, the device can be permanently implanted.