Medically reviewed by Dr. Scheid
What Are Spinal Cord Stimulators (SCS)?
A spinal cord stimulator is an implantable medical device that delivers mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain and providing relief for chronic back, leg, and arm pain that has not responded to other treatments.
Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are medical-grade devices that gently transmit a mild electric current to the spinal cord by way of an implanted battery attached to fiber-thin wiring, placed atop the spinal cord via surgical technique. Delicate wires carry the current from a pulse generator to the affected nerve fibers of the spinal cord. When activated, the SCS stimulates the nerves in the specific area, modifying and masking the pain signal from reaching the brain; this technique effectively alleviates discomfort.
It is important to note that stimulation does not eradicate the root cause of pain; rather, it reframes the brain’s perception of it. Therefore, the extent of pain relief may vary from person to person. Nonetheless, the objective of SCS is to achieve a reduction of neuropathic pain by at least 50%. Even a marginal decrease is significant as long as it enables individuals to perform daily activities better and minimizes reliance on pain medication. At NeuroSpine Plus, our goal is to help patients across New Jersey reduce their pain and live a more active lifestyle by utilizing the least invasive technique possible.
Who qualifies as a candidate?
Determining if SCS is appropriate for prolonged pain management goals involves assessing your physical condition, medication regimen, and surgical and pain history. A review of previous treatments and surgeries will be conducted by a member of our surgical team, physiatrist, or pain management provider. Moreover, as chronic pain may have emotional implications, a psychologist referral may be requested to optimize the chances of a successful outcome.
Usually, patients selected for SCS experience chronic and debilitating pain for over three months in the lower back, leg (sciatica), or arm. They may have also undergone one or more spinal surgeries, which have failed to alleviate their radicular complaints.
You might be eligible for SCS if:
- Conservative therapies have proven ineffective
- Additional surgery may not be beneficial
- Additional surgery may not be viable given the medical/surgical history
- You have successfully completed an SCS trial with a pain management provider or physiatrist
What Symptoms Are Treated With a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
- Chronic leg (sciatica) or arm pain (radiculopathy): persistent pain caused by arthritis, spinal stenosis, or nerve damage.
- Diabetic neuropathy: a diabetic condition causing burning or stabbing pain, often affecting the legs or feet.
- Failed back surgery syndrome: when one or more surgeries fail to relieve persistent arm or leg pain, excluding technical malfunctions of the original procedure.
- Complex regional pain syndrome: an advancing disease characterized by constant, chronic burning pain, typically in the foot or hand.
- Arachnoiditis: painful inflammation and scarring of the protective lining of spinal nerves.
If you believe you may be a candidate for a spinal cord stimulator, call our office today to book your consultation at (201) 399-3388.
How Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure Performed?
A spinal cord stimulator procedure involves two stages: the trial and the implantation of the permanent device if deemed effective at pain relief.
First, there is a trial period where a pain management provider or physiatrist will insert a temporary device for you to assess. Using fluoroscopy, a specific type of X-ray, they will carefully position the electrodes in the epidural space of your spine. The electrode placement depends on the location of your pain.
Typically, only one incision is made in your mid to lower back to place the electrodes during the trial. The generator or battery will be positioned externally, usually attached to a belt worn around your waist.
Over the course of approximately 5 to 7 days, you will evaluate the pain reduction provided by the device. The trial is considered successful if you experience a 50% or more reduction in your pain level.
If the trial is unsuccessful, the wires can be easily removed in a clinical setting without causing damage to your spinal cord or nerves. However, if the trial is successful, permanent implantation may be discussed for prolonged pain relief.
Before the surgery, you will be given general anesthesia by a trained anesthesiologist. You will be completely asleep before the procedure begins. Once you are anesthetized, our team of trained neurosurgeons and physician assistants will perform the following procedure:
- A small incision is made on your mid-back to access the spine
- If warranted, a decompressive laminectomy will be performed to access the spinal cord, where the electrodes will be placed
- A smaller incision is made above the buttocks where the generator, also referred to as a battery, is placed beneath the skin above the musculature
- The electrode wiring is connected to the generator and secured in place
- The entire procedure is conducted with serial X-ray imaging technology to ensure optimal placement
- The incision(s) are closed with multiple layers of dissolvable sutures and covered with a dry, sterile dressing
What to Expect Following a Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure
This procedure is typically performed outpatient, meaning you will likely go home the same day. Depending on the complexity of your surgery, medical history, and comfort level postoperatively, you may require admission for overnight observation.
Typically, patients can begin walking within an hour post-procedure, with assistance. While you might experience mild discomfort at the incision sites, this sensation is generally short-lived, subsiding within days. Notably, many individuals report a significant reduction in pain shortly after their surgery.
It is essential to discuss postoperative activities with your doctor to ascertain which, if any, should be temporarily avoided in the interest of optimal recovery.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we are committed to ensuring you are well informed and prepared for a smooth recovery process.
Your postoperative healing progress will be closely overseen by our team of providers, ensuring a routine recovery. A member of our team will contact you within the first 48 hours of your procedure to monitor your progress.
General postoperative recommendations include, but are not limited to the following:
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Use of postoperative pain medications as prescribed
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Over-the-counter Tylenol for pain
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Do not smoke
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Do not drink alcohol
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Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
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Do not use NSAIDs until cleared by your surgeon (Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, etc)
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Incision care includes washing your incision with gentle antibacterial soap 48 hours after your procedure. No scrubbing, submerging, or soaking the incision(s). No lotions, creams, oils, or ointments atop the incision(s).
What to expect following a Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure
- Use of postoperative pain medications as prescribed
- Over-the-counter Tylenol for pain
- Do not smoke
- Do not drink alcohol
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Do not use NSAIDs until cleared by your surgeon (Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, etc)
- Incision care includes washing your incision with gentle antibacterial soap 48 hours after your procedure. No scrubbing, submerging, or soaking the incision(s). No lotions, creams, oils, or ointments atop the incision(s).
When to Contact Your Doctor Following Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery
If you have concerns during your postoperative period, including, but not limited to, the following:
- High fever greater than 100.4F
- Change in urinary or bowel habits
- Severe positional headache that will not resolve when lying flat
- Swelling or discoloration of one or both calves
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
- Lightheadedness
- Incisional compromise
- Loss of strength in your arms or legs
If you have a question regarding your initial postoperative period, a member of our team is always available to answer and address your concerns at (201) 399-3388, or you can also contact us online.
Spinal Cord Stimulator FAQs:
Rechargeable batteries typically last 7-10 years and require regular recharging using an external charging device. Non-rechargeable batteries generally last 2-5 years, depending on usage. Dr. Scheid will discuss the most appropriate battery type for your needs during your consultation.
Most patients describe the sensation as a gentle tingling or buzzing in the area where they normally feel pain. Modern spinal cord stimulators offer different programs, including paresthesia-based stimulation, paresthesia-free stimulation, and burst stimulation. During your trial period, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the sensation and determine if it is comfortable and effective.
Yes, you’ll receive a handheld remote control or a smartphone app that allows you to:
- Turn the stimulator on and off
- Adjust the intensity level within physician-set parameters
- Switch between different pre-programmed settings for various activities or times of day
- Check the battery status
Our team will provide comprehensive training on how to use your specific device’s controller before you leave after the implantation procedure.
Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover spinal cord stimulator procedures when medically necessary. Coverage typically requires documentation of chronic pain, evidence that conservative treatments have failed, a successful trial period, and appropriate psychological evaluation. Our office staff will work with your insurance provider to determine your coverage before proceeding.
You should not drive immediately after the procedure. Specific driving restrictions include:
- After the trial procedure: No driving for at least 24 hours or while taking narcotic pain medications
- After permanent implantation: No driving for 1-2 weeks to allow incisions to heal and to become comfortable with the device
Additionally, some patients should avoid driving when their stimulator is active if the stimulation causes any sensation that might interfere with vehicle operation. This varies by individual and by the location of your pain/stimulation.
Most patients can resume normal daily activities with some minor adjustments:
- You should avoid extreme bending, twisting, or stretching that could displace the leads
- You may need to avoid high-impact activities or contact sports
- Some household appliances with strong electromagnetic fields might temporarily interfere with your stimulator
- You’ll need to carry your controller/remote with you to adjust settings as needed
Many patients report improved ability to perform daily activities due to reduced pain, which often outweighs these minor limitations.
After your permanent stimulator is implanted, you’ll have several programming sessions with a specialist who will:
- Fine-tune the electrical impulses to target your specific pain areas
- Create multiple stimulation “programs” for different positions or activities
- Teach you how to adjust settings within safe parameters
- Address any questions or concerns about using the device
These sessions are crucial for optimizing your pain relief. Initial programming typically occurs 1-2 weeks after implantation, with follow-up sessions as needed to refine the settings.
Clinical studies show that approximately 70-80% of appropriately selected patients report at least a 50% reduction in pain with spinal cord stimulation. Most patients who experience significant relief continue to benefit for many years. The trial period is a strong predictor of long-term success.
It is generally safe to have X-rays and CT scans following the implantation of a spinal cord stimulator. However, it is important to inform your doctor, nurse, or technician about the presence of your spinal cord stimulator before any scan.
MRI scans are not always safe for individuals with spinal cord stimulation devices. Many newer devices may be compatible with specific models of MRI machines and scanning locations, but many facilities require documentation from the manufacturer to ensure compatibility. If your device is not MRI-compatible, undergoing an MRI could lead to serious injury.
Yes, airport security gates will detect the presence of your stimulator. Some individuals may experience uncomfortable (yet harmless) interference with their stimulators when passing through airport security gates. If you are unable to avoid going through the security screener, make sure to turn off your device before doing so.
Swimming is permissible with a permanent, implanted generator once your incisions are well-healed. However, you should avoid getting your temporary stimulator wet during the trial period, as electrode leads and the battery pack are exposed.
Yes, a spinal cord stimulator can be safely removed if you are dissatisfied with the level of pain relief it provides or if there is an issue with your system.
Schedule Your Spinal Cord Stimulator Consultation at NeuroSpine Plus
If you believe you may be a candidate for a spinal cord stimulator, contact NeuroSpine Plus today or call (201) 399-3388 to schedule your consultation with our dedicated team.
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Scheid & The Team at NeuroSpine Plus
Last updated: March 3, 2026The team at NeuroSpine Plus is led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a board-certified neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience and 8,000+ successful surgeries. Along with his dedicated team of physician assistants and medical professionals, NeuroSpine Plus specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and comprehensive spine care across six convenient locations in New Jersey. Our clinical expertise in treating complex spine conditions ensures all content is medically accurate and based on proven treatment approaches we use daily in our practice.