Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for Pain Management
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
Treatment Overview
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive procedure that helps manage chronic pain by modifying how pain signals are processed in the spinal cord. It is commonly used for back, leg or arm pain — particularly when other treatments have been ineffective.
How the Procedure Works
Spinal cord stimulation involves implanting a pulse generator under the skin (usually in the buttock or abdomen) and connecting it to leads near the spinal cord. The pulse generator sends electrical impulses through these leads to alter pain signals. Before a permanent implant is considered, a trial procedure is performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the stimulation.
SCS Trial
SCS Implant
Who Benefits from SCS
Spinal cord stimulation is an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions, including:
- Back Pain: Persistent back pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments.
- Neck Pain: Chronic neck pain often resulting from spinal issues or nerve compression.
- Leg Pain: Ongoing leg pain is often linked to nerve issues or spinal disorders.
- Arm Pain: Chronic arm pain associated with spinal or nerve disorders.
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: Continued pain after back surgery that hasn’t been resolved by other interventions.
- Phantom Limb Pain: Pain perceived in a limb that has been amputated.
- Cancer Pain: Severe pain associated with cancer and its treatments.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Chronic pain affecting a limb after injury or surgery, characterized by severe pain and changes in skin color, temperature, and swelling.
- Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve pain and damage often experienced by individuals with diabetes, particularly in the feet and legs.
- Cervical & Thoracic Radiculopathy: Pain, numbness or weakness radiating from the neck or upper back due to nerve compression or irritation.
What to Expect
- Trial Procedure: A trial is conducted initially to evaluate the effectiveness of SCS. During this phase, temporary electrodes are placed near the spinal cord through small incisions. These electrodes are connected to an external trial stimulator that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord.
- Trial Period: Over one week, you’ll track pain relief and daily activities to evaluate the stimulation’s effectiveness.
- Implant Procedure: If the trial is successful, you will be scheduled to have a permanent SCS device implanted. Follow-up appointments will adjust settings and monitor progress. The device can be turned off or removed if needed.
Insurance & Billing
Your eligibility for any procedure depends on the benefits outlined by your insurance provider, and our team at Nura will assist you with the authorization process.
Comprehensive Care
At Nura, we seamlessly integrate interventional procedures, physical therapy, psychological support and medications. Research shows that this comprehensive approach is the most effective way to manage chronic pain.
Find Pain Relief
Schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists by filling out our appointment request form or giving us a call at 763-537-6000.
Explore Conditions Treated with SCS:
- Cancer Pain
- Cervical & Thoracic Radiculopathy
- Cervicogenic Headaches (Whiplash)
- Chronic Headache Pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
- Herniated Disc
- Pelvic Pain
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Phantom Limb Pain
- Postherpetic Neuralgia (Shingles)
- Sciatica (Lumbar Radiculopathy)
- Spondylolisthesis
