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Spinal Cord Stimulation Defined

Through tiny electrical currents delivered along the spinal cord, an implanted stimulator helps block or mask pain signals traveling to the brain. Many people describe the resulting feeling as a faint, pleasant tingling known as paresthesia.

How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works

This advanced system uses precisely timed electrical pulses to interrupt the communication between spinal nerves and the brain. The result is a soothing tingling sensation or a complete absence of pain, allowing for a meaningful improvement in daily comfort.

What Conditions Respond to Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation can ease widespread or localized chronic pain that doesn’t improve with standard therapies. It’s commonly used for patients whose pain remains despite nerve blocks or when surgery cannot resolve the source of their discomfort.

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When to Consider Spinal Cord Stimulation

If chronic pain has continued for over three months and hasn’t improved with traditional treatments, spinal cord stimulation may offer hope. Your specialist will first map the exact areas of nerve pain through diagnostic exams to guide the placement of therapy.

To help ensure the best possible outcome and meet many insurance guidelines, a psychological assessment is often part of the pre-procedure process.

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Pain Conditions Suitable for Spinal Cord Stimulation

Patients may find meaningful relief from chronic conditions like:

  • Back, leg, or arm pain that continues after surgery
  • Abdominal pain
  • Phantom limb pain
  • Neuropathic pain from diabetes (burning or stabbing in the feet)
  • Cancer pain
  • Complex regional pain syndrome
  • Nerve irritation or scarring around the spine
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How the Two-Step Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure Is Done

Step 1: The Trial Run

  • The initial phase tests the therapy’s effectiveness before anything permanent is implanted
  • Using live X-ray guidance, your doctor places temporary leads into the epidural space under local anesthesia
  • These connect to an external device that you’ll wear for several days, allowing you to evaluate pain reduction and comfort
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Step 2: Permanent Implantation

  • If the trial produces meaningful results, the system is then implanted under your skin
  • A small incision is made—typically in the lower back or above the buttocks—to insert the pulse generator and connect it to the leads
  • This final stage, also done under local anesthesia, provides a long-term pain-relief solution
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Your Regenerative Therapy Choices in West Palm Beach

Patients at the Advanced Relief Institute can benefit from restorative treatments, including platelet-rich plasma, stem cell, and amniotic fluid injections. By activating the body’s regenerative powers, these therapies promote tissue repair and reduce pain without the need for major surgery.

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Post-Procedure Recovery and Activity Guidelines

During the early recovery phase, you should avoid strenuous workouts and heavy physical activity for up to two weeks; however, light walking is acceptable. After about two weeks, most patients can drive and return to work (with the stimulator off). Complete healing usually occurs within two to four weeks, followed by a gradual return to full activity under medical supervision.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the spinal cord stimulator trial?

How long does the trial phase last?

What happens during the procedure?

How painful is the procedure?

What happens if the trial is successful?

What if the trial doesn’t work as expected?

Are there any risks involved?

How does spinal cord stimulation compare to other pain treatments?

Can I be active during the trial period?

What is the purpose of the spinal cord stimulator trial?

To confirm that spinal cord stimulation effectively reduces chronic pain before permanent implantation.

How long does the trial phase last?

Several days to one week with external equipment attached to temporary spinal leads.

What happens during the procedure?

The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia with fluoroscopic (real-time X-ray) guidance.

How painful is the procedure?

Discomfort is generally mild, with short-lived soreness at the insertion site.

What happens if the trial is successful?

If the trial provides meaningful pain relief, you’ll proceed to a permanent implant with an internal generator placed under the skin.

What if the trial doesn’t work as expected?

If results are unsatisfactory, the temporary leads are removed, and you and your physician will explore alternative pain-relief methods.

Are there any risks involved?

The trial carries a low risk of infection, bleeding, or localized discomfort.

How does spinal cord stimulation compare to other pain treatments?

It provides localized nerve modulation rather than systemic drug effects. It’s also less invasive than surgery and can be adjusted or fully reversed if needed.

Can I be active during the trial period?

Light walking is permitted, but bending, twisting, and heavy lifting should be avoided to prevent the leads from shifting.

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