Pain signals travel along the spinal cord to the brain. SCS therapy applies electrical doses directly to the nerve fibers, changing the pain signal into something the brain interprets as a sensation called “paresthesia.” Patients generally describe it as a gentle tingling or massage-like feeling.

Patients must first complete a spinal cord stimulator trial to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.  The patient receives a temporary, nonimplanted (external) system. Wire leads connect the external trial device to electrode contacts placed over the spinal cord. The system delivers electrical impulses that can mask pain signals.

After a successful trial and psychiatric evaluation are successful, the patient can proceed with the permanent implant.  A small, rechargeable implant called an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) is surgically placed in a comfortable, convenient position under the patient’s skin. Flexible leads that were inserted into the epidural space near the spinal cord are connected to the IPG unit. Each lead has a number of tightly spaced electrode contacts. The IPG unit produces electrical impulses that travel along the leads to the contacts to deliver pain-masking signals. Afterward, the patient controls the stimulation fields with a remote control unit.