Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation uses an implanted device to deliver controlled electrical impulses to the spinal nerves. By altering how pain signals travel to the brain, it can transform discomfort into a tingling or paresthesia that is far easier to tolerate.

How It Works

The implanted stimulator sends gentle electrical pulses along specific spinal pathways, interrupting pain communication before it reaches the brain. As a result, many patients experience a light, comfortable sensation rather than persistent pain.

Conditions Treated With Spinal Cord Stimulation

This therapy offers relief for long-term pain throughout the body, particularly when the exact cause can’t be corrected surgically. It’s frequently recommended for patients who gain little or no benefit from injections or non-surgical pain procedures.

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Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right for You?

If long-term pain has persisted despite medications, injections, or surgery, spinal cord stimulation could be an option. Your physician will first run specialized tests to better understand the cause and pattern of your pain, which helps fine-tune the placement and programming of the device.

You may also undergo a psychological screening—both to optimize outcomes and because many insurers require it before approving treatment.

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Conditions That May Improve With Spinal Cord Stimulation

This therapy addresses a wide range of pain disorders, such as:

  • Chronic pain of the back, legs, or arms
  • Pain that remains following back surgery
  • Neuropathic pain from diabetes
  • Ongoing abdominal pain
  • Phantom limb or post-amputation pain
  • Cancer-related pain
  • Complex regional pain syndrome
  • Pain from nerve inflammation or scar tissue along the spine
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The Two Stages of Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery

Step One: The Trial

  • Your journey begins with a test phase to confirm that spinal cord stimulation helps your pain
  • Under local anesthesia and X-ray guidance, thin leads are placed near the spinal cord and connected to an external stimulator
  • You’ll wear the device for about a week while tracking changes in your pain and comfort levels
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Step Two: The Permanent Implant

  • When trial results are positive, the following procedure permanently places both the leads and an internal battery-powered pulse generator beneath your skin—usually near the buttocks or abdomen
  • This outpatient step is also done with local anesthesia and a small incision for discreet placement
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Regenerative Treatments Available in Aventura

For those wishing to avoid or delay spinal nerve interventions, we provide advanced regenerative therapies, including:

  • PRP
  • Stem cell
  • Amniotic fluid injections

Each treatment stimulates the body’s innate repair processes to reduce inflammation and encourage tissue regeneration.

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Recovery After Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery

Your body needs time to adjust to the implanted system. For the first week or two, limit physical exertion and stick to short walks. Most patients return to regular routines and driving (with stimulation off) after about two weeks. Complete healing usually occurs within two to four weeks, after which your physician may recommend gradually increasing physical activity.

FAQs

Why Try a Spinal Cord Stimulator First?

How Long Does It Take?

What Is the Process Like?

Does It Hurt?

If the Trial Helps…

If It Doesn’t Help…

Are There Risks?

How Is It Different From Other Options?

Can I Do Normal Things?

Why Try a Spinal Cord Stimulator First?

The trial lets you “test-drive” the therapy before deciding on a permanent device. It helps confirm whether gentle electrical stimulation truly eases your chronic pain.

How Long Does It Take?

The trial phase typically lasts between five and seven days. Temporary wires placed in the spine connect to a small external controller that you wear during this period. You and your provider evaluate how well the stimulation relieves pain.

What Is the Process Like?

It’s a quick outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The doctor uses X-ray guidance to accurately place the thin leads. Most people feel only mild pressure and can go home the same day.

Does It Hurt?

The procedure isn’t usually painful. A numbing medicine keeps you comfortable, though you might notice slight soreness where the leads were inserted.

If the Trial Helps…

You can move on to the long-term solution—a fully implanted system that sits beneath your skin and delivers ongoing stimulation.

If It Doesn’t Help…

The leads are simply removed. You and your care team will review other therapies that may better match your needs.

Are There Risks?

Complications are uncommon but may include temporary soreness, minor bleeding, or infection. Careful follow-up reduces these possibilities.

How Is It Different From Other Options?

Unlike painkillers that affect the entire body, stimulation targets the nerves responsible for pain. It can often provide substantial relief with fewer side effects and is reversible if needed.

Can I Do Normal Things?

You can walk and perform gentle daily tasks, but avoid heavy exercise, bending, or twisting until the trial is finished.

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