About Spinal Cord and DRG Stimulation
A spinal cord stimulator uses thin wires, called leads, placed in the space around the spinal cord. The leads connect to a small battery, similar to a pacemaker, that sends mild signals to change how pain messages reach the brain. DRG stimulation places leads near specific nerve root clusters, which can target pain in focused areas such as the foot, knee, or groin.
These devices are used for chronic pain that has not responded to other treatments, including pain that persists after spine surgery, complex regional pain syndrome, some painful neuropathy, and chronic radiating leg or arm pain. Stimulation does not remove the underlying cause, but it can reduce pain and improve daily function.
Implants are performed as outpatient procedures in an appropriate surgical or procedure facility rather than a regular clinic room. Dr. Chen will explain where your trial and implant will take place.
What happens during treatment
- 1.
Dr. Chen reviews your history, imaging, and prior treatments. A psychological evaluation is often required before a trial, as it is for most implanted pain devices.
- 2.
During the trial, temporary leads are placed through a needle under X-ray guidance and connected to an external stimulator you wear for several days at home.
- 3.
You track your pain, sleep, and activity during the trial. The leads are then removed.
- 4.
If the trial clearly helps, the permanent system is implanted in a separate outpatient procedure, with the battery placed under the skin.
- 5.
Follow-up visits fine-tune the settings as healing progresses.
Who may be a good candidate
- People with persistent back or leg pain after spine surgery.
- People with complex regional pain syndrome or chronic nerve pain that has not responded to other treatments.
- People with painful diabetic neuropathy of the feet that limits walking or sleep.
- People who want to reduce reliance on pain medication and are not candidates for further surgery.
Recovery
After the trial, the temporary leads are removed in the office or procedure setting with little discomfort. After the permanent implant, expect incision soreness for one to two weeks. Bending, lifting, and twisting are limited for several weeks while the leads settle into place. Most people then return to walking, light exercise, and a gradual strength program.
Risks and limits
Risks include infection, bleeding, lead movement that reduces relief, headache from a spinal fluid leak, and pain at the battery site. Rarely, bleeding near the spinal cord or nerve injury can cause serious problems. Devices may need battery replacement or revision surgery over time, and some limit certain MRI scans. Stimulation does not help everyone, which is why the trial comes first. Seek urgent care for new weakness, numbness, fever, or wound drainage after the procedure.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about SCS / DRG
- Why is there a trial before the permanent stimulator?
- The trial lets you experience stimulation in your daily life before committing to an implant. If your pain and function do not improve meaningfully, the temporary leads are simply removed and no permanent device is placed.
- Where is the stimulator procedure performed?
- Trials and implants are outpatient procedures done in a sterile procedure or surgical facility, not a standard exam room. Dr. Chen will review the location and preparation with you before scheduling.
- Can I have an MRI with a spinal cord stimulator?
- Many current systems allow MRI under specific conditions, but some limit which scans can be done. We consider your likely future imaging needs when choosing a device.
- What is the difference between spinal cord and DRG stimulation?
- Spinal cord stimulation covers broader areas such as the back and both legs. DRG stimulation targets specific nerve root clusters, which can help pain in focused areas like the foot, knee, or groin.