Spinal Cord Stimulation
An advanced, trial-based therapy for chronic back, leg, or nerve-related pain when conservative care has not provided lasting relief.
If you have chronic pain and treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections haven’t helped, you may be a candidate.
Trial-Based Neuromodulation
SCS delivers low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord to reduce how pain signals are perceived.
Step 1
Temporary Trial
Step 2
Permanent Implant
Primary Goal
Reduce Pain
Focus
Improve Function
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an advanced treatment option for chronic back, leg, or nerve-related pain that has not improved with conservative care. A small device delivers low-level electrical pulses to the spinal cord, modifying how pain signals are transmitted to the brain.
Patients can adjust stimulation settings using an external controller. A temporary trial is performed first to confirm meaningful pain relief before considering permanent implantation.
Key Features
- Trial first to confirm benefit
- Adjustable settings for daily activities
- May reduce reliance on long-term pain medications for appropriate patients
Which Conditions Can Spinal Cord Stimulation Help Treat?
Spinal cord stimulation may be recommended for chronic pain conditions involving nerve dysfunction.
Common Indications
- Chronic back and/or leg pain
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Chronic radiculopathy or nerve pain
Additional Nerve-Related Conditions
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Neuropathic pain, including diabetic neuropathy
- Persistent post-surgical or post-traumatic nerve pain
Am I a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
You may be a candidate if you have persistent pain that has not improved with physical therapy, medications, or injections. Our team reviews your medical history, imaging, and previous treatments to determine whether a spinal cord stimulation trial is appropriate.
Before permanent implantation, patients undergo a trial phase to confirm that spinal cord stimulation provides meaningful pain relief.
Who Performs Spinal Cord Stimulator Trials?
Spinal cord stimulator trials at NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin are performed by Dr. Amanda Greene and Dr. Michael Roegner, both specialists in interventional pain management.
The trial phase allows patients to assess pain relief and functional improvement before deciding on permanent implantation.
What Happens During the Spinal Cord Stimulation Process?
Spinal cord stimulation is typically completed in two stages.
Trial Phase
Temporary electrodes are placed in the epidural space under X-ray guidance while the generator remains external. Patients test the device for several days to evaluate pain relief and functional improvement.
Permanent Implantation
If the trial is successful, a permanent system—electrodes and a small implanted generator—is placed beneath the skin during an outpatient procedure, typically lasting 1–2 hours.
What Is Recovery Like?
Most patients return home the same day. Mild soreness at the incision sites is common, and activity restrictions are provided to support proper healing. Many patients experience improved pain control, mobility, and daily function over time.
What Is the Goal of Spinal Cord Stimulation?
The goal of spinal cord stimulation is to reduce chronic pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life while minimizing reliance on long-term medications. Each treatment plan is individualized to support the safest and most effective outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trial required before permanent implantation?
Yes. The trial phase helps confirm that spinal cord stimulation provides meaningful relief and functional improvement before proceeding with a permanent system.
Can I adjust the stimulation?
Yes. Patients can adjust settings using an external controller to support comfort across different activities and daily routines.
Will I go home the same day?
Most patients return home the same day after both the trial and permanent implantation procedures, though your care plan may vary based on individual factors.