Living with a Spinal Cord Stimulator: What You Need to Know

Chronic pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making everyday activities challenging and reducing your overall well-being. For those who have not found relief through traditional pain management methods, a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) can be a transformative solution. This advanced technology offers a new take on life for many chronic pain sufferers, allowing them to return to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle. In this post, we'll explore what it's like living with a spinal cord stimulator and discuss any permanent restrictions associated with the device.

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS), also known as a dorsal column stimulator, is a minimally invasive device implanted under the skin to help manage chronic pain. It sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, which block pain signals from reaching the brain. This process replaces the sensation of pain with a mild tingling, known as paresthesia. For those who don’t care for the tingling sensation, there are also paresthesia-free SCS options to effectively reduce pain.

Key Components of an SCS System:

• Pulse Generator: A small, battery-powered device that generates electrical pulses.
• Remote Control: Allows patients to adjust the intensity and pattern of the electrical pulses.

The Journey to Pain Relief

Before committing to a permanent SCS implant, patients undergo a trial period. This trial involves a temporary SCS system to evaluate its effectiveness and determine if it's the right solution for you. The trial mimics the experience of the permanent device and helps assess pain relief and overall comfort.

At Pain Specialists of America (PSA), a leading provider of interventional pain management in central Texas, our focus is on personalized care. We offer state-of-the-art therapies and diagnostics to tailor pain management solutions to individual needs. Our mission is to provide exceptional, outcomes-based pain management so patients can lead active and fulfilling lives.

Living with Your Spinal Cord Stimulator

Once the permanent SCS implant is in place, you will begin a new chapter in managing your chronic pain. Here’s what you can expect:

• Recovery Period: Post-surgical recovery generally involves managing pain and learning how to use the SCS device. Most procedures are done on an outpatient basis, but some patients may require a short hospital stay. Recovery includes dealing with initial post-surgical pain, which typically reduces significantly after the first 10 days.
• Daily Life Adjustments: You will work with your provider to learn how and when to perform daily activities without straining your back. Walking is encouraged as early as possible, and special techniques are used to avoid twisting the spine.

Permanent Restrictions with the Spinal Cord Stimulator

While there are no specific permanent restrictions, some precautions are advised to protect your device and ensure its optimal functioning:

• Driving: It’s recommended to turn off the stimulator while driving but you can keep it on when you’re a passenger.
• Radiographic Imaging: Some SCS devices may not be compatible with MRI scans, so inform medical personnel about your device before any imaging.
• Swimming and Water Sports: You may resume these activities once your surgical site has healed and with your surgeon's approval.
• Traveling: The SCS device will be detectable by airport scanners. Medical certificates or cards explaining the device's purpose can be helpful.

At PSA, We're Here for You

Pain Specialists of America is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive pain management. With 13 locations and 3 surgery centers across central Texas, PSA offers advanced therapies and personalized treatment plans to address chronic pain effectively. We offer spinal cord stimulator trials and permanent systems at our surgery centers in Killeen, South Austin, and Duval.

Our vision is to improve the quality of life for patients through innovative, integrated care, making sure you have the support you need throughout your pain management journey.

If you’re considering a spinal cord stimulator or need support with your current device, PSA’s team is here to help. We are committed to ensuring that you receive the best possible care and achieve meaningful pain relief.