Is Spinal Cord Stimulation a permanent solution for pain?

Spinal Cord Stimulation is not a cure for the underlying conditions causing pain, but it can provide long-term pain relief for many individuals. It offers a way to manage chronic pain effectively, reduce the need for pain medications, and improve your overall quality of life.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with SCS?

While Spinal Cord Stimulation is generally considered safe, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. We can discuss these risks with you in detail before the procedure.

Will I need to make lifestyle adjustments with an implanted SCS device?

In most cases, patients can lead relatively normal lives with an implanted SCS device. However, it's essential to avoid activities that may damage the device, and attend regular follow-up appointments to ensure its functioning properly.

Can anyone undergo your Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial in Kyle?

Not everyone is a candidate for SCS. The best way to determine if it's the right option for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced pain specialists in Kyle who can assess your condition and your health to determine if you’re a good candidate.

Spinal Cord Stimulation in San Marcos | Greater Austin Pain Center

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator, and How Does It Work?

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is an innovative device designed to reduce chronic pain by interfering with pain signals before they reach the brain. Implanted near the spine through a minimally invasive surgical procedure, the device emits mild electrical pulses that mask the pain signals. Instead of experiencing pain, many patients feel a gentle tingling sensation or no discomfort at all.
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It’s important to note that spinal cord stimulation doesn’t eliminate the source of pain; rather, it modifies how the brain perceives it. To ensure this treatment is the right fit, patients first undergo a trial period with a temporary stimulator before committing to permanent implantation.

If a patient decides they no longer wish to use the device, the permanent spinal cord stimulator can be safely removed without causing damage to the spinal cord or surrounding nerves.

Experience Relief with Spinal Cord Stimulator Implants

Spinal cord stimulation in San Marcos, TX, offers a cutting-edge solution for managing chronic pain. This advanced neuromodulation therapy not only reduces pain but also improves sleep, enhances your overall quality of life, and allows you to regain independence—all while minimizing reliance on pain medications.
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The spinal cord stimulator implant procedure is minimally invasive, boasting a low risk of complications and a faster recovery compared to other surgical treatments. Patients often experience significant relief soon after the procedure, making it a highly effective option for long-term pain management.

What Do Spinal Cord Stimulators Treat?

Spinal cord stimulators are an effective treatment option for individuals who have not found sufficient relief from chronic pain through medications, less-invasive therapies, or other surgical procedures. This advanced pain management solution is commonly used to treat:

Chronic back pain
Nerve-related pain (neuropathy)
Post-surgical pain
Arachnoiditis
Heart-related pain (angina)
Spinal cord injuries
Peripheral vascular disease
Perineal pain

If you are struggling with persistent pain that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, spinal cord stimulation could provide the relief you need to improve your quality of life.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial and Implantation Process

Spinal cord stimulation involves two key steps:

Trial Period
A temporary spinal cord stimulator is implanted to evaluate its effectiveness in managing your chronic pain. This trial period lasts about 7–10 days and allows patients to decide if the treatment is right for them.
Permanent Implantation
If the trial is successful, the permanent spinal cord stimulator is implanted during a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. This device is designed to provide long-term pain relief and can be adjusted as needed to optimize comfort and effectiveness.

What To Expect from the Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Process

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial

During the trial procedure, temporary wires are placed near the spine, and an external transmitter is used to deliver mild electrical pulses. This trial allows patients to test the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation over several days before committing to a permanent implant.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation

If the trial is successful, the permanent spinal cord stimulator is implanted in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. The small generator is placed discreetly under the skin, and patients gain full control over their pain relief settings for different activities.

Recovery Time and Post-Surgery Care

Recovering from spinal cord stimulator implantation is a critical step in achieving long-term success with the device. During the first week after surgery, patients should focus on rest and adhere to their doctor’s recovery guidelines. Key restrictions include:

Avoid heavy lifting (no more than five pounds).
Refraining from athletic activities or sudden jerking movements, such as twisting or bending.
Minimizing prolonged sitting or activities that put pressure on the spine.
Avoiding overhead arm movements.

Driving and other activities may also be restricted for a few weeks. Your doctor at Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos will provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and lifestyle to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Process

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we aim to make the process of exploring Spinal Cord Stimulation as smooth and straightforward as possible. That’s why our process involves just three simple steps:
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Schedule an Appointment

Call our San Marcos location or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation. Our team will reach out to confirm your appointment.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Period

If you are a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation, you’ll begin with a temporary device to evaluate its effectiveness over several days.

Permanent Implantation

After a successful trial, we will perform a minimally invasive procedure to implant your permanent spinal cord stimulator. This advanced device allows you to customize your pain relief settings for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does spinal cord stimulation work?

Yes, spinal cord stimulation has been proven effective for many patients in reducing chronic pain. While results vary, most patients experience significant improvements in their quality of life, sleep, and ability to manage daily activities without relying heavily on medications.

Are you put to sleep for spinal cord stimulator surgery?

The procedure is typically performed under mild sedation with local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the process. Your doctor will discuss your specific sedation options during your consultation.

Is a spinal cord stimulator trial painful?

The trial procedure is minimally invasive and designed to minimize discomfort. Most patients report that the trial is well-tolerated and are able to resume light activities shortly afterward.

How is a spinal cord stimulator implanted?

During the permanent implantation, a small device is placed under the skin, and thin wires are positioned near the spinal cord to deliver electrical pulses. The entire process is minimally invasive and typically completed as an outpatient procedure.

Can I return to daily activities after it’s implanted?

Yes, but there will be restrictions during the initial recovery period to ensure proper healing. Once you’ve recovered, you can gradually return to most daily activities with the guidance of your doctor.

Does insurance cover spinal cord stimulators?

Many insurance plans cover spinal cord stimulators, though coverage varies by provider. Our team will assist you in verifying your benefits and navigating the approval process.

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Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial and Implantation in San Marcos, TX

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What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator, and How Does It Work?

Experience Relief with Spinal Cord Stimulator Implants

What Do Spinal Cord Stimulators Treat?

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial and Implantation Process