How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works to Control Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain can feel like fighting a battle you didn’t choose. When medications, therapy, and other treatments fall short, advanced solutions like Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) offer a new way forward. At IGEA Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we specialize in cutting-edge neuromodulation therapies like SCS to help patients regain control and rediscover comfort.

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal Cord Stimulation is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment for chronic pain. It involves implanting a small device near the spine that delivers mild electrical impulses to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. Instead of feeling pain, many patients feel a gentle tingling sensation—or no sensation at all.

SCS is commonly used to treat:

• Chronic back and leg pain (especially after spine surgery)
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Failed back surgery syndrome
• Pain from nerve damage

How Does the Procedure Work?

• Trial Phase: One of the key benefits of spinal cord stimulation is the ability to “test-drive” the therapy. During the trial, temporary leads are placed near your spinal cord, and a small external stimulator is worn on your belt. This lets you experience the benefits before committing to the permanent implant.
• Implantation: If the trial provides significant pain relief, a small pulse generator is implanted under the skin (usually in the abdomen or buttocks), and leads are carefully positioned near the spinal cord.
• Programming: The device is customized and programmed to deliver stimulation patterns that work best for your specific pain. You’ll receive a handheld controller to adjust settings as needed.

Why Patients Choose Spinal Cord Stimulation

• Minimally invasive with no major downtime
• Reduces or eliminates the need for opioids
• Significant and long-lasting pain relief
• Fully reversible—the device can be removed if needed
• Customizable to your lifestyle and pain patterns

Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right for You?

If you’ve tried conservative therapies without success, spinal cord stimulation may be a strong next step. At IGEA, our pain management and neurosurgery experts will thoroughly evaluate your condition, walk you through your options, and ensure you’re a candidate for the trial phase.

We understand that every patient’s experience with pain is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach—integrating the latest advancements in medicine with compassionate, patient-focused care.

Trust Your Spine to the Experts at IGEA

With a team that includes board-certified neurosurgeons, orthopedic specialists, and pain management physicians, IGEA Brain, Spine & Orthopedics is a leader in innovative solutions for chronic pain.

You don’t have to live in pain. Discover how spinal cord stimulation can help you take your life back.