Spinal cord stimulation treats chronic nerve pain with a small implanted device that sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, changing pain signals before they reach the brain. It is used for severe nerve pain, pain that continues after spine surgery and complex regional pain syndrome, generally after injections and medication have not given lasting relief. The process has two stages. A temporary lead is placed through the skin for a trial period the patient controls, and the permanent device is implanted only if that trial relieves the pain. Spine Institute of North America (Spine INA) in East Brunswick, New Jersey performs both stages and matches the device type to the pain pattern.
Have you ever hit your knee on a table? Without even thinking about it, you probably start to rub the area as soon as you can because you know it will make it feel better. Mechanical stimulation (rubbing) overpowers the pain signal, providing pain relief. This was the basis for the gate theory first published by Melzack and Wall in 1965. This sentinel work helped create the framework for our understanding of pain signals and pathways. Further research over the last 50 years has led to the development and design of our modern spinal cord stimulators. These spinal cord stimulation devices are safe, effective, and allow patients to be pain- and medication-free. With a variety of device choices, our specialists at the Spine Institute of North America know the intricate details in order to help select the best option for you.
