Neurostimulation therapy (spinal cord stimulation) may help relieve pain and restore comfort by blocking the pain signals to the brain. This therapy stimulates the area near your spinal cord with mild electrical impulses. Neurostimulation can be an effective alternative when other pain management therapies have not worked for you.

Candidates

To receive the stimulator, candidates must undergo a thorough clinical evaluation. If the patient is found to be a surgical candidate, a trial consisting of the insertion of a temporary adjustable spinal cord stimulator is conducted. During the course of the trial, the stimulation is adjusted to cover all areas of pain. If the patient finds relief from the trial of stimulation, implantation of a permanent spinal cord stimulator is scheduled.

How it Works

The neurostimulator is a small, surgically placed device that generates and delivers mild electrical impulses near your spinal cord area through one or more leads (a flexible insulated wire). The stimulation from these leads replaces pain with a mild, tingling sensation. Based on your pain needs, physicians have the ability to customize the pain relief stimulation for you.
The stimulator system includes a hand-held patient programmer that is used to easily change stimulation levels, similar to a remote control. This programmer allows you to easily adjust settings and to turn your system on or off.

For more detailed information on the stimulator, download the Medtronic, Inc. Neurostimulation Introduction brochure (pdf).