Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an advanced therapy used to manage chronic pain by delivering mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses are generated by a small device implanted under the skin, which is connected to leads placed near the spinal cord. The electrical signals interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain, reducing the perception of pain and providing relief.

SCS is particularly effective for patients with conditions such as chronic back or neck pain, failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or neuropathic pain. This therapy is often recommended when traditional treatments like medication or physical therapy fail to provide adequate relief.

The procedure begins with a trial period, where temporary leads are implanted to assess the therapy's effectiveness. If successful, a permanent device is implanted.

At Foundation Pain & Spine PLLC, a trusted pain management clinic, spinal cord stimulation is offered as part of a comprehensive approach to chronic pain. This minimally invasive treatment can significantly improve quality of life by reducing reliance on medications and enhancing mobility.

Is spinal cord stimulation safe?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is considered a safe and effective therapy for managing chronic pain when performed by experienced medical professionals. The procedure involves implanting a small device under the skin and placing leads near the spinal cord to deliver mild electrical impulses that block pain signals. It is minimally invasive and offers a reversible treatment option, as the device can be removed if necessary.

The safety of SCS has been well-documented, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved quality of life. Side effects are generally minimal and may include mild discomfort at the implantation site, temporary swelling, or soreness after the procedure. Rare complications can include infection, lead displacement, or hardware malfunctions, but these risks are mitigated with proper surgical techniques and post-procedure care.

Patients undergo a trial phase before permanent implantation to ensure the therapy is effective for their specific condition. With ongoing advancements in technology, spinal cord stimulation continues to be a reliable and low-risk option for chronic pain management, offering long-term relief and reducing reliance on medications.

What can spinal cord stimulation treat?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an innovative treatment for managing chronic pain, particularly for individuals who have not found relief with traditional methods like medications or physical therapy. SCS is effective in treating a variety of conditions by delivering mild electrical impulses that interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain.

One of the primary uses of SCS is for failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), where patients experience persistent pain after spinal surgery. It is also commonly used for chronic back and neck pain, especially in cases associated with nerve damage or inflammation.

SCS is highly effective in managing neuropathic pain, such as that caused by diabetic neuropathy, and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which affects the limbs with severe, often debilitating pain. Additionally, SCS can treat peripheral vascular disease by improving blood flow and reducing ischemic pain.

By providing long-term relief, improving functionality, and reducing reliance on pain medications, spinal cord stimulation offers a transformative solution for many chronic pain conditions, significantly enhancing quality of life.

Foundation Pain & Spine PLLC
8390 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75243, United States

(469) 214-5735