Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explains: When Spinal Cord Stimulation Might Be the Right Choice for Your Pain
Chronic pain can profoundly impact your quality of life, limiting daily activities and diminishing overall well-being. For many patients, conventional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections may not provide sufficient relief. That’s where advanced therapies like spinal cord stimulation (SCS) come into play.
Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a highly respected pain management specialist, shares his expertise on when spinal cord stimulation could be an effective and appropriate option for managing chronic pain.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation involves the implantation of a small device that sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, effectively reducing the perception of pain.
The device, sometimes called a neurostimulator, includes thin leads placed near the spinal cord and a battery pack implanted under the skin, typically near the abdomen or buttocks. Patients can adjust stimulation levels using a remote control.
Dr. Sudberg explains, “SCS is a minimally invasive therapy that can provide significant pain relief, especially for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.”
Who Is a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Not everyone with chronic pain is a candidate for spinal cord stimulation. Dr. Sudberg outlines several key factors that help determine if this treatment might be right for you:
1. Chronic, Intractable Pain
SCS is primarily considered for patients with chronic pain that has not responded well to conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or nerve blocks. Common conditions include:
- Failed back surgery syndrome (persistent pain after spinal surgery)
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Certain types of nerve-related leg or arm pain
- Chronic leg or back pain from degenerative disc disease
2. Pain Originates from the Spine or Nerves
Since spinal cord stimulation targets nerve pain pathways, it is most effective when the pain originates from spinal nerves or related structures rather than purely muscular or skeletal causes.
3. Good Physical and Psychological Health
Candidates should be physically healthy enough for a minor surgical procedure and free from untreated psychological conditions that could interfere with treatment success. Dr. Sudberg emphasizes, “A psychological evaluation is often part of the screening process to ensure patients have realistic expectations.”
What to Expect During the Spinal Cord Stimulation Process
The process typically involves two stages:
- Trial Period: Temporary leads are implanted during a trial that lasts about 5-7 days. This allows the patient and physician to assess how effective the stimulation is in reducing pain.
- Permanent Implantation: If the trial results are positive, the permanent device is implanted during a minor outpatient procedure.
Dr. Sudberg notes, “The trial is a crucial step because it gives patients a hands-on experience before committing to the implant.”
Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation
- Significant Pain Reduction: Many patients experience a 50-70% reduction in pain.
- Reduced Medication Use: SCS can decrease reliance on opioids and other pain medications.
- Improved Quality of Life: Enhanced ability to perform daily activities and improved sleep.
- Adjustable and Reversible: The stimulation settings can be customized, and the device can be removed if necessary.
Risks and Considerations
As with any medical procedure, spinal cord stimulation carries some risks:
- Infection
- Lead migration or displacement
- Hardware malfunction
- Temporary discomfort or numbness
“While complications are rare, it’s important to discuss potential risks with your pain specialist,” advises Dr. Sudberg.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Right for You?
If you suffer from chronic nerve-related pain and have found limited relief with other treatments, spinal cord stimulation might offer a new path forward. Dr. Jordan Sudberg recommends consulting a pain management specialist who can conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including physical, psychological, and diagnostic testing.
“Spinal cord stimulation is not a cure-all but can dramatically improve life for carefully selected patients,” Dr. Sudberg concludes.
Final Thoughts
Chronic pain can feel overwhelming, but innovative treatments like spinal cord stimulation provide hope for many. Understanding whether this therapy aligns with your specific condition and lifestyle is the first step toward effective pain control.
For personalized guidance and expert care, reach out to Dr. Jordan Sudberg and his team to explore whether spinal cord stimulation might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
