Spinal Cord Stimulation

This type of electrical nerve stimulation sends electrical pulses to the nerves or spinal cord to interrupt nerve impulses that produce pain. Spinal cord stimulation can be utilized to improve back pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), nerve pain, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The nerve stimulation process begins with a temporary electrode that is inserted into the skin. The electrode is connected to a stimulator in which the patient can turn on and off. The stimulator is also implanted under the skin and connected to nerves or inserted into the spinal cord.

The implantation of the spinal cord stimulator is done in an outpatient setting. Your doctor will conduct a trial run to determine the pulse strength that best relieves the patient’s pain. The electrical nerve stimulation will create a tingling feeling that will dissipate in moments. This is a minimally invasive procedure that should only leave a small incision. The patient should keep the incision area clean and dry until healed.