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Spinal Cord Stimulation

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Spinal Cord Stimulation

Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation involves the use of a device that delivers mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the pain signals traveling to the brain, thereby reducing the perception of pain. The SCS system comprises a small pulse generator, implanted under the skin, and electrodes placed near the spinal cord. Patients can control the intensity and frequency of the electrical impulses using an external remote.


The Mechanism Behind Spinal Cord Stimulation

The primary mechanism of SCS is based on the gate control theory of pain, which suggests that non-painful stimuli can close the "gates" to painful input, preventing pain sensation from traveling to the central nervous system. By delivering electrical impulses, the SCS device effectively "closes the gate," blocking the transmission of pain signals and providing relief to the patient.


Types of Spinal Cord Stimulators

There are two main types of spinal cord stimulators:

  • Conventional implantable pulse generator (IPG): This device requires a battery replacement surgery every few years but offers consistent pain relief.
  • Rechargeable IPG: This device has a rechargeable battery, reducing the need for frequent surgeries. Patients can recharge the battery externally.


Interventional Pain Management and SCS

Interventional pain management encompasses a variety of techniques that directly target the source of pain. SCS is a crucial component of this field, offering a minimally invasive option for patients with chronic pain conditions.

Spinal Cord Stimulators



Spinal cord stimulators are implanted to treat a specific area of pain by treating specific pain fibers within the spinal cord. The stimulator interrupts the pain signals before they reach the brain and are perceived as pain. This treatment is appropriate for patients with neck pain, back pain, leg pain, or arm pain that either cannot be identified or cannot be treated directly. Some examples of conditions typically treated with spinal cord stimulation include, but are not limited to: phantom limb pain, failed-back surgery syndrome, and complex regional pain syndrome. A four-day trial with a temporary system precedes all implants. Permanent implantation is only performed if the four-day trial was successful. The trial placement is done in our office and the permanent implant is placed at the hospital in the operating room.

Start Your No Pain Journey

expert care for lasting pain

With more than 20 years of experience, our specialists have a proven track record of helping patients manage and overcome chronic pain.

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