How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?

How does spinal cord stimulation work?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) works by delivering low-voltage electrical impulses to the spinal cord to interfere with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Here are is how it works: 

1. First, one or more thin, flexible electrodes are implanted near the spinal cord in the epidural space. The exact placement depends on the location of the pain being treated.
2. Once the electrodes are in place, they are connected to a small generator device, which is usually implanted under the skin in the abdomen or buttock area. This generator produces electrical pulses.
3. The electrical pulses generated by the device create a tingling sensation called paresthesia, which helps to mask or interrupt the pain signals traveling from the spinal cord to the brain. This can result in a significant reduction in the perception of pain.You have the ability to control the spinal cord stimulator through an app. 

• The spinal cord stimulator can essentially "close the gate" on pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain and reducing the sensation of pain

Spinal cord stimulation may also modulate the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain perception, such as endorphins and serotonin, which can further help to alleviate pain. Our pain management physicians at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics specialized in spinal cord stimulation. If you have any additional questions about SCS that are not addressed in this blog, you can schedule an appointment with them by selecting the “Book Now” button.