Spinal cord stimulators are used most often after nonsurgical pain treatment options have failed to provide sufficient relief. Spinal cord stimulators may be used to treat or manage different types of chronic pain.
A spinal cord stimulator is an electrode placed in the epidural space through the skin producing an electric current to treat chronic pain. A small pulse generator sends electrical pulses to the nerves, these pulses interfere with the nerve impulses that make you feel pain.
Spinal cord stimulators are used to minimize the use of narcotics.
Conditions treated: Failed Back, Failed Surgery Syndrome, Post Laminectomy Syndrome, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, Post Herpetic Neuralgia, ischemic pain secondary to peripheral vascular disease, and phantom limb pain.
Nerve stimulation is done in two steps:
- Step One: your doctor will first insert a temporary electrode through the skin (percutaneously) to give the treatment a trial run. The electrode is connected to a stimulator that the patient can control. Typically for a week long trial.
- Step Two: If the trial is successful, your doctor can implant a permanent stimulator under your skin. This is typically done using a local anesthetic and a sedative. The stimulator itself is implanted under the skin and the small coated wires (leads) are inserted under the skin to the point where they are either connected to nerves or inserted into the spinal canal.
After this outpatient procedure with the spinal cord stimulator is complete, you and your doctor determine the best pulse strength. You are then trained to use the stimulator at home. Typically you will use your spinal cord stimulation for 1 or 2 hours, 3 or 4 times a day. The electrical nerve stimulator creates a tingling feeling.
Lipson Pain Institute believes in maintaining a caring and compassionate atmosphere to help improve the quality of life for those in pain. We are committed to following our multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that every aspect of a patient’s well being is considered within our treatment plans.
Education is a key element to our process, motivating patients to become actively involved in their pain management care.
Dr. Ana Lipson
Lipson Pain Institute
210 1st Street South
Winter Haven, Florida 33880
(863) 293-4800
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