Spinal Cord Stimulators in Valencia and Encino, CA

If you're struggling with persistent back or nerve pain and conservative treatments haven't provided sufficient relief, California Neurosurgical Institute offers cutting-edge spinal cord stimulator (SCS) therapy that could make a difference in managing your symptoms.

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator is a medical device implanted in the spine that uses electrical impulses to modulate nerve signals and alleviate chronic pain. SCS therapy can provide significant relief from pain conditions that have not responded to other treatments by replacing the pain with paresthesia (a tingling or buzzing sensation). It is especially effective for managing nerve pain, failed back surgery syndrome, and certain types of chronic back pain.

Evaluation, Trial, and Treatment

The spinal cord stimulator process begins with a thorough evaluation, including diagnostic imaging and a detailed discussion of your symptoms and treatment history.

Evaluation

We assess whether SCS therapy is a suitable option for your condition. A comprehensive assessment to find the “pain generator” is completed by our team. If the pain generator is considered too generalized to be treated with precision surgery, or if the risks of surgical repair out-weigh the benefit of surgery, a SCS trial is recommended instead of major surgery.

Trial

The trial helps determine if the therapy will benefit you; everyone responds differently to the electrical current. The trial involves placement of temporary leads into the spinal canal. These leads are placed using a needle to enter the spinal canal and an intraoperative x-ray machine to assess lead placement. The part of the leads that exit the skin are then connected to the controller/battery pack, which is worn in a special external harness. The patient performs normal activities for the next 5 days and assesses if stimulation is providing any relief. If the trial phase is successful, a final spinal cord stimulator will be implanted in the soft tissue of the body.

Treatment

The insertion procedure is minimally invasive, typically performed under general anesthesia, and involves placing electrodes inside the spinal canal and a battery pack under the skin of preferred hip or upper buttock region. Our institution recommends implantations of reputable manufacturers, such as Boston Scientific, Abbott, St. Jude, and Medtronic. After implantation, you will receive detailed instructions on managing your stimulator, including how to adjust settings using remote controls outside the body and care for the implantation site. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Managing Spinal Pain Symptoms

Spinal cord stimulators are effective in managing various conditions related to chronic back and nerve pain, including:

Chronic Back Pain: Persistent pain in the lower back that has not responded to other treatments.
Nerve Pain: Pain caused by nerve damage or compression, often resulting from conditions like diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: Pain that continues or recurs after previous spinal surgeries.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A condition characterized by severe, continuous pain often affecting the limbs.

Recovering Spinal Sensation

Recovery from spinal cord stimulator implantation is a gradual process of regaining your spinal sensation. You may experience discomfort and swelling at the implantation site, but this usually resolves within a few days. Most patients can return to light activities within a week. Be prepared for close coordination with your doctor as part of the ongoing management of your new SCS therapy device. Regular follow-up visits will help ensure the stimulator is functioning correctly and that you learn to adjust settings as needed for optimal pain relief.

Choosing the Innovative Approach

California Neurosurgical Institute is dedicated to providing exceptional care and innovative treatments for chronic pain. Our team of experts is highly trained in spinal cord stimulation and other advanced pain management techniques. We use the latest SCS devices and technologies to ensure effective pain relief and minimal disruption to your daily life. Our doctors will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. From initial consultation to long-term follow-up, our compassionate staff provides comprehensive support throughout your treatment process.

Spinal Cord Stimulators FAQ

How do I know if a spinal cord stimulator is right for me?

A thorough evaluation and trial phase will help determine if spinal cord stimulation is appropriate for your pain and overall health.

How long does the spinal cord stimulator last?

Spinal cord stimulators are designed to last for several years. Some manufacturers have device batteries that will need replacement at intervals, typically every 3–5 years. Battery replacements are typically done as an outpatient under local anesthesia and take about 15 minutes to perform. There is minimal downtime for battery replacements.

Can I adjust the stimulator settings myself?

Yes, you will receive a remote control to adjust the settings of your stimulator to optimize pain relief and comfort.

What should I expect during the recovery period?

Recovery involves managing initial discomfort, gradually resuming activities, and attending follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust settings.