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Spinal Cord Stimulator

Chronic pain can significantly affect quality of life. When other treatments have not worked, a spinal cord stimulator offers the opportunity for lasting relief. The device delivers mild electrical impulses that interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, and a trial period lets you test it before a permanent implant.

What Are Spinal Cord Stimulators?

Spinal cord stimulators are medical devices designed to deliver targeted electrical impulses to the spinal cord, aiming to stop pain signals before they reach the brain. They consist of a pulse generator and electrode leads implanted under the skin, offering a drug-free method of managing chronic pain.
 
The therapy is reversible and adjustable, and may be recommended depending on the unique needs of each patient. It is often considered for pain that persists after spine surgery and chronic nerve pain.

Conditions Stimulation Treats

Spinal cord stimulators can address various chronic pain conditions, including:

Back painChronic back and neck pain unresponsive to conventional treatment. Nerve painNeuropathic pain from nerve damage or disease. Failed back surgery syndromePain that persists or worsens after spine surgery. RadiculopathyChronic radiating arm or leg pain.

Also complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a chronic condition with severe, persistent pain.

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Candidate Evaluation

To determine whether you may be a good candidate, you will undergo a comprehensive assessment focused on whether traditional treatments and therapies have provided significant relief.
 
Patients who choose a permanent implant are thoroughly briefed so they understand all of the benefits and risks of the procedure.
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From Trial To Permanent Implant

Spinal cord stimulation lets you test the therapy before committing:

  1. 1

    Comprehensive assessment

    Your history, prior treatments, and imaging are reviewed.

  2. 2

    Trial period

    A temporary device is placed so you can gauge how well it manages your pain in daily life.

  3. 3

    Review the results

    You and your physician decide together whether the relief justifies a permanent device.

  4. 4

    Permanent implant

    Following a successful trial, the permanent device is surgically implanted under the skin.

  5. 5

    Ongoing adjustment

    Settings can be adjusted over time to keep the therapy working for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a spinal cord stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator is a medical device that delivers targeted electrical impulses to the spinal cord to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. It has a small pulse generator and thin electrode leads implanted under the skin.

Who is a candidate for a spinal cord stimulator?

Candidates are patients with chronic pain who have not achieved significant relief from traditional treatments and therapies, after a comprehensive assessment.

What is the trial period?

In most cases, a temporary device is placed for a trial period so you can gauge how well stimulation manages your pain before committing to a permanent implant.

Is spinal cord stimulation reversible?

Yes. The therapy is reversible and adjustable. Settings can be changed to suit your pain, and the device can be removed if needed.

What conditions does spinal cord stimulation treat?

It can address chronic back and neck pain unresponsive to conventional treatment, neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and failed back surgery syndrome.

Is a spinal cord stimulator a drug-free treatment?

Yes. It offers a drug-free method of managing chronic pain, which may help some patients reduce their reliance on pain medication.

What are the risks?

As with any implanted device, risks include infection, lead movement, and device problems. Patients choosing a permanent implant are thoroughly briefed on the benefits and risks.

How do I find out if I am a candidate?

A comprehensive assessment of your history and prior treatments is the first step. Call (321) 499-4646 to schedule an evaluation.

Benefits Of Spinal Cord Stimulation

For the right patient, spinal cord stimulation offers:

  • A drug-free option for chronic pain.
  • A trial before committing to a permanent device.
  • Reversible and adjustable therapy.
  • Relief when other treatments have not worked.
  • Support for daily activity and quality of life.
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Related Treatments

Nerve Block Injections

Selective nerve root block injections (SNRB) are commonly administered to patients experiencing pain resulting from a compressed spinal nerve root.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive pain management treatment option proudly offered by Total Spine and Orthopedics.

Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to diagnose and treat neck and back pain. These injections are placed in the epidural space of the spine, which is located between the vertebral bones and the protective covering of the spinal cord.

Pain Management Injections

Several types of injections can be used to diagnose and treat back pain. In many cases, injections are used for both purposes at the same time.

Endoscopic Spine Surgery

Our minimally invasive discectomy procedure offers relief from chronic pain caused by a herniated disc or bulging disc.

Discectomy

Our minimally invasive discectomy procedure offers relief from chronic pain caused by a herniated disc or bulging disc.

ACDF – Spinal Fusion

Patients suffering from a cervical (neck) spine condition may experience chronic neck pain or shooting pain in the head, arm, and/or fingers. This continual pain can become debilitating and cause a decrease in activity and quality of life.

Cervical Disc Replacement

Patients who have a deteriorated disc in the cervical (neck) spine may experience pain, numbness or tingling in the neck, arm and fingers. This continual pain, if left untreated, could result in a restriction of activity and quality of life.

Lumbar Disc Replacement

Chronic lower back pain affects millions globally, significantly diminishing their quality of life. Traditional treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, or invasive surgeries like spinal fusion.

TLIF – Spinal Fusion

Patients who suffer from a spine condition in the lumbar (lower back region) often experience chronic pain and limited mobility.

Our Patients Stories

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Why Choose Total Spine and Orthopedics

Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.

  • Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques

    We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.

  • Same-day, outpatient procedures

    Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons

    Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.

  • A complimentary MRI review

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  • Trusted by our community

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  • Options when other treatments fall short

    From injections to spinal cord stimulation, we offer a full continuum of pain care.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.

  • Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando

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