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What Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Do?

An SCS system works by sending low-level electrical energy to the spinal cord, where it interferes with the transmission of pain signals. Instead of feeling persistent pain, patients may notice a light tingling or gentle vibration that offers meaningful relief.

How Spinal Cord Stimulation Relieves Pain

A spinal cord stimulator modifies pain transmission by introducing subtle electrical energy to targeted spinal nerves. These impulses mask or block pain messages, often transforming them into a gentle tingling sensation that provides lasting relief.

Who Can Benefit From Spinal Cord Stimulation?

SCS therapy in Boca Raton targets chronic pain that resists traditional care. Whether the source of discomfort is unknown or surgery isn’t an option, stimulation can reduce persistent pain even after nerve blocks and other treatments fail.

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Who Qualifies for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

People living with chronic pain lasting three months or longer and who haven’t responded to conservative therapies may benefit from this treatment. Before moving forward, your pain specialist will identify the nerve pathways responsible for your discomfort, thereby improving the precision of stimulation.

A brief psychological evaluation may also be required to confirm readiness and support long-term success. In many cases, insurance companies include this as part of their pre-approval process.

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Types of Pain Treated by Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation has shown effectiveness in reducing:

  • Chronic low-back and leg pain, including post-surgical pain
  • Ongoing arm pain or neuropathy
  • Abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Cancer-associated pain
  • Phantom limb discomfort
  • Diabetic neuropathy with burning or stabbing sensations
  • Complex regional pain syndrome
  • Pain linked to spinal nerve inflammation or fibrosis
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How the Procedure Works

Phase 1: Temporary Trial

  • The first stage serves as a “test drive”
  • Your physician inserts temporary wires into the epidural space under local anesthesia and real-time imaging
  • These connect to an external unit that sends gentle electrical impulses for several days
  • You can fine-tune the settings and report back on your level of relief
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Phase 2: Full Implantation

  • If you experience significant improvement, the team proceeds with the permanent implant
  • The pulse generator—about the size of a matchbox—is positioned under the skin near your lower back or buttocks
  • Using a single, small incision, the device is connected to internal leads to deliver long-term pain control
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Exploring Regenerative Medicine at ARI

Advanced Relief Institute in Boca Raton offers several cutting-edge regenerative therapies that activate your body’s self-healing abilities, such as:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
  • Stem cell
  • Amniotic fluid injections

These options are ideal for patients looking for natural pain relief before pursuing more invasive procedures.

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What to Expect During Recovery

After your spinal cord stimulator is placed, light activity is best for the first couple of weeks. Avoid exercise or heavy lifting while the device settles. By two weeks, you’ll likely be able to drive and return to work, provided the stimulator is turned off during driving. A full recovery and gradual reintroduction of regular exercise typically follow within four weeks, under your doctor’s guidance.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the spinal cord stimulator trial?

How long does the trial phase last?

What happens during the trial procedure?

Is the procedure painful?

What happens if the trial is successful?

What if the trial does not provide enough pain relief?

Are there any risks or side effects?

How does spinal cord stimulation compare to other pain management therapies?

What activities should I avoid during the trial?

What is the purpose of the spinal cord stimulator trial?

This temporary phase assesses the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation in reducing chronic pain before implanting a permanent device.

How long does the trial phase last?

The trial generally lasts several days to one week with external stimulation leads in place.

What happens during the trial procedure?

Performed under local anesthesia, the physician places temporary leads in the epidural space under fluoroscopic guidance and connects them to an external generator.

Is the procedure painful?

Pain is minimal; mild post-procedure soreness resolves within a few days.

What happens if the trial is successful?

A second procedure permanently implants the pulse generator under the skin—commonly in the abdomen or lower back.

What if the trial does not provide enough pain relief?

Leads are removed, and alternative management plans are discussed.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Minor bleeding, localized tenderness, and infection are rare but possible.

How does spinal cord stimulation compare to other pain management therapies?

SCS directly targets spinal pain pathways, avoiding systemic drug effects and offering a reversible, minimally invasive option.

What activities should I avoid during the trial?

Limit strenuous movement to prevent lead displacement; light activity is acceptable.

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