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Spinal Cord Stimulators
Spinal Cord Stimulation is the most technological way to achieve pain relief. It changes how you perceive pain by giving the brain feedback that decreases pain. There is a "Trial" procedure where temporary stimulator leads are inserted so you can take a few days to see if this procedure will help your pain. If it helps more than 50% of your pain and you want to have this relief permanently, the next step is surgical implantation of the "permanent" stimulator. Please see the 2 videos below.
There are 4 Spinal Stimulator manufacturers available currently in the USA. We encourage you to gather as much information as you can, then discuss with our providers which one would be best for your condition and your unique needs.
Here are links to each manufacturer for further information:
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Stimulator Trial Procedure
Permanent Spinal Cord Stimulator
Implant Surgery
Spinal Stimulator Pre-op Instructions
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No eating or drinking for 8 hours prior to the scheduled procedure time
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You will be sent to “Pre Procedure Testing” with our internal medicine doctor to make sure all your body systems are healthy enough to have the procedure. The doctor will likely order testing.
Spinal Stimulator Post-op Instructions
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No bending, lifting, or twisting for 2 months, especially important is to avoid the twisting.
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Have a “lazy” day on the day of the procedure. You may have significant to intense pain over the battery site. Take your pain medicines as prescribed. Ice packs are important to control the pain, but have a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin to not freeze the skin.
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From day 2 and thereafter, you must get up and walk 5-10 minutes at a time to avoid clots
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The time OFF work will vary for different people. Ask your doctor.
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You may shower or bathe the morning after your procedure.
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The bandage is just to collect any fluid or blood that may leak. Feel free to remove it once no drainage occurs.
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You may drive after 7 days, if you feel ok to do so. Please exercise judgment – if you are not stable, ask your doctor first and do not drive.
No alcoholic beverage 24 hours after sedation, anesthesia, or while taking pain medication. No complex decision making or signing of any important papers 24 hours after sedation. Call if you experience unusual symptoms or develop a fever over 101 degrees.