Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Back and Neck Pain
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive neuromodulation therapy that delivers mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. Many patients with chronic neck and back pain are also exploring alternatives when medications or injections no longer provide relief. At Spine Associates, our interventional pain specialists guide you through every step from candidacy evaluation and trial period to permanent device placement and follow-up care.
How Can Spinal Cord Stimulators Reduce Pain?
A spinal cord stimulator works by placing thin leads in the epidural space near the spinal cord. These leads are connected to a small pulse generator implanted under the skin (often in the buttock or abdomen). When active, the device sends mild electrical signals that mask pain sensations with a tingling or soothing sensation. This therapy is especially effective for patients with persistent back or leg pain, failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, or neuropathy when other treatments have failed.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right For Me?Â
Not everyone with back pain is a candidate for SCS, so we perform a careful evaluation. Ideal candidates are those with chronic neuropathic pain, pain not relieved by conservative therapies, or those for whom surgery is high-risk or undesirable. A trial stimulation is performed first, where temporary leads test whether SCS can reduce your pain by at least 50 % before committing to permanent implantation.
What Should I Expect with Spinal Cord Stimulation?
The benefits may include reduced pain medication usage, improved sleep, better functional ability, and enhanced quality of life. However, like any procedure, there are risks: lead migration, infection, hardware failure, or loss of effect over time. At Spine Associates, our team closely monitors you and provides adjustments or revisions as needed to maximize your long-term success.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Services in Houston and Beaumont
At Spine Associates in Houston and Beaumont, TX, we combine board-certified interventional pain physicians, advanced imaging guidance, and personalized care. We tailor each plan to your condition and pain goals, ensuring that you receive the most effective spinal cord stimulation therapy for your situation. From your initial consultation to long-term follow-up, we’re committed to helping you regain control over your life without invasive spine surgery.
If you’re tired of living in chronic pain and want to explore innovative, non-surgical options, contact us today to see if spinal cord stimulation might be right for you. Reach out for more information on becoming a Spine Associates patient.
Spinal Cord Stimulation FAQ
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation and How Does It Work?
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive therapy that uses gentle electrical pulses to block pain signals before they reach the brain. Thin leads are placed near the spinal cord and connected to a small implanted generator, creating a soothing sensation instead of pain. This treatment is especially helpful for patients with chronic back, neck, or leg pain who haven’t found relief with medications, injections, or surgery.
Am I a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
You may be a candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation if you have chronic neuropathic pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care, or if you’re not a good candidate for spine surgery. At Spine Associates, our specialists perform a detailed evaluation and trial period to determine if SCS can effectively reduce your pain before recommending a permanent implant.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Many patients experience a significant reduction in pain, decreased reliance on medications, and an improved quality of life with Spinal Cord Stimulation. However, potential risks include lead movement, infection, hardware malfunction, or reduced effectiveness over time. The team at Spine Associates provides careful monitoring, device adjustments, and long-term support to ensure safe and lasting results.