Spinal Cord Stimulation: Advanced Relief for Chronic Pain

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Advanced Relief for Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain can take a toll on every aspect of your life. If treatments like medications, injections, or even surgery haven’t provided lasting relief, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may be an effective next step.

At Deseret Rock Pain Specialists, we offer spinal cord stimulation as an advanced, evidence-based option to help patients regain control of their pain and improve quality of life.

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation is a therapy that uses a small implanted device to deliver mild electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals modify pain signals before they reach the brain.

Instead of feeling pain, patients may experience:

• A mild tingling sensation (in some systems)
• Or no sensation at all (with newer “paresthesia-free” systems)

What Conditions Can SCS Treat?

Spinal cord stimulation is commonly used for:

• Chronic back and leg pain
• Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)
• Sciatica (nerve-related leg pain)
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Chronic pain after surgery or injury

It is typically considered when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

The Trial Process: Try Before You Commit

One of the unique advantages of spinal cord stimulation is the ability to test the therapy before permanent implantation.

Trial Phase:

• Temporary leads are placed near the spinal cord
• The device is worn externally
• The trial lasts about 5–7 days

If you experience significant pain relief (typically 50% or more), you may proceed with permanent implantation.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Permanent Implantation:

• Performed in an outpatient or surgical setting
• Leads are placed near the spinal cord using imaging guidance
• A small battery (generator) is implanted under the skin (usually in the lower back or buttock)

The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes.

Recovery and Results

• Most patients go home the same day
• Light activity is recommended for several weeks
• Full recovery typically occurs within 4–6 weeks

Benefits Patients May Experience:

• Significant reduction in pain
• Improved function and mobility
• Reduced reliance on pain medications
• Better sleep and overall quality of life

Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation

• ✔ Long-term pain relief
• ✔ Adjustable and reversible therapy
• ✔ Minimally invasive compared to major surgery
• ✔ Trial period before permanent placement
• ✔ Can significantly reduce opioid use

Risks and Considerations

While spinal cord stimulation is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Lead movement (migration)
• Device malfunction
• Pain at the implant site

Most complications are manageable, and serious risks are uncommon.

Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right for You?

You may be a candidate if:

• You have chronic pain lasting more than 6 months
• Conservative treatments have failed
• You are not a good candidate for further surgery—or prefer to avoid it
• You are motivated to participate in the trial process

A thorough evaluation will determine if SCS is appropriate for your condition.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

At Deseret Rock Pain Specialists, we specialize in advanced pain solutions tailored to each patient.

📍 3665 S. 8400 W. Ste 200, Magna, UT 84044 📞 801-961-4010 🌐 deseretrock.com

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if spinal cord stimulation is right for you.