Patient handout · Pain treatments
Spinal Cord Stimulation
What it is
A spinal cord stimulator is a small device that sends mild electrical signals to the spinal cord. The signals may change how you feel pain. You try it for a few days first before deciding on a long-term device.
Why it is done
- Chronic back or leg pain after spine surgery
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Painful diabetic neuropathy
- Chronic pain not adequately controlled with other treatments
- Completion of a psychological evaluation, often required by insurers
What to expect
- Before: You try the device first for about a week. Thin wires are placed through a needle and connected to a small device you wear outside the body.
- During: You and your doctor look at how much your pain and daily activities improved during the trial.
- After: If the trial helped, a long-term device is placed under the skin in an outpatient procedure. You will have follow-up visits to adjust the settings.
Self-care tips
- Keep the cut clean and dry until it heals.
- During healing, avoid bending, lifting and twisting as told.
- Carry your device ID card. Tell other providers you have a device before any MRI.
- Charge or check your device as shown.
When to call us
- Fever over 101°F or chills
- Redness, swelling or fluid draining from the cut
- The device stops working or gives an unusual feeling
- Symptoms that get worse
Call 911 for chest pain, trouble breathing, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
This handout is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.