Spinal Cord Stimulator FAQs: Benefits, Risks & Recovery
Find A Doctor – Ohio
Find a Doctor: Neuropathy Specialist in Ohio
If chronic neuropathy pain isn’t responding to medications or other treatments, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may be an option.
Our neuropathy specialists in Ohio offer advanced care for managing chronic nerve pain. One method that’s gaining traction is spinal cord stimulation therapy—a minimally invasive procedure used for peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and other nerve-related pain conditions.
To find out if spinal cord stimulation is right for you, schedule a consultation with a neuropathy doctor near you.
Practices In Ohio
Find A Doctor
What is spinal cord stimulation?
SCS is a minimally invasive pain management treatment that uses a small implanted device to send electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses help block or mask pain signals before they reach the brain.
It’s often recommended for chronic pain conditions—especially when other treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections haven’t provided enough relief. It’s commonly used for neuropathy-related pain, including pain in the legs, feet, or back caused by nerve damage.
What are the benefits of spinal cord stimulation for neuropathy?
Many patients in Ohio choose spinal cord stimulation therapy because it:
- Reduces chronic neuropathy pain without relying solely on pain medications
- Can be adjusted or customized based on pain levels
- Is minimally invasive and reversible if needed
- Allows patients to resume normal activities with improved mobility
How does the spinal cord stimulator procedure work?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) therapy is an overall treatment approach, and the spinal cord stimulator procedure is the surgical component that implants the device into your body. This procedure is minimally invasive and is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation.
Here are the typical steps involved:
Step 1: Trial phase
Temporary external leads are placed near the spinal cord to test how well the stimulation relieves your pain. This trial usually lasts about a week.
Step 2: Evaluation
If you experience significant pain relief during the trial, your specialist may recommend moving forward with the permanent implant.
Step 3: Permanent implant
A small device along with the leads are implanted under the skin near your spine. This device sends electrical signals to help block pain signals from reaching your brain.
Step 4: Recovery
Most patients go home the same day and resume light activities within a few days. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks.
Step 5: Follow-up
Your Ohio care team will provide a personalized follow-up plan to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the stimulator settings for optimal pain relief.
Neuropathy and Spinal Cord Stimulation in Ohio: FAQs
Does spinal cord stimulation help with neuropathy?
Yes. Spinal cord stimulation therapy has helped many patients manage chronic neuropathy pain—particularly when medications and physical therapy haven’t provided enough relief. This minimally invasive, non-opioid treatment can offer significant pain reduction and improved comfort.
A neuropathy specialist in Ohio will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine if spinal cord stimulation is the right approach for your condition.
Can spinal cord stimulation help with diabetic neuropathy?
Yes, spinal cord stimulation therapy can be effective for painful diabetic neuropathy, especially when high blood sugar levels have led to nerve damage. Our Ohio neuropathy specialists can determine if this minimally invasive approach is right for you.
What is the best doctor to see for neuropathy?
The best doctor for neuropathy depends on your symptoms, the underlying cause, and how severe the nerve damage is. Here’s a quick breakdown of specialists who may be involved in your care:
- Neurologists specialize in the nervous system and are often the first to diagnose neuropathy. They may order tests, identify the type of nerve damage, and manage medications.
- Pain management doctors focus on relieving chronic nerve pain, especially when it’s affecting your quality of life. They may use injections, medications, or advanced therapies.
- Interventional spine or nerve specialists offer minimally invasive procedures, like spinal cord stimulation, when conservative treatments haven’t helped.
If you’re in Ohio and traditional treatments haven’t worked, a peripheral neuropathy doctor near you can assess whether you’re a candidate for more advance
How do I find a neuropathy doctor near me?
To find a neuropathy doctor near you in Ohio, here are a few tips to guide your search:
- Check provider directories for neurologists or pain specialists in your area.
- Look for clinics that mention peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, or spinal cord stimulation on their websites.
- Read patient reviews to learn more about others’ experiences with long-term pain management.
- Ask your primary care doctor for a referral, especially if your current treatments haven’t been effective.
- Confirm the clinic offers interventional options such as spinal cord stimulation, not just medication management.
Finding the right specialist can make a big difference—especially if your current treatments haven’t brought lasting relief.
What is a diabetic neuropathy specialist, and where can I find one near me?
If you’re dealing with burning, tingling, or sharp pain in your legs, feet, or hands, a diabetic neuropathy specialist near you can help. These specialists focus on managing nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels and offer a range of treatment options—from adjusting medications to more advanced solutions like spinal cord stimulation.
To find the right care, look for clinics that treat diabetic neuropathy specifically. Make sure they offer both traditional and interventional approaches to pain management.
What is the best treatment for neuropathy in the legs and feet?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. For nerve pain and muscle weakness linked to diabetes, neuromuscular conditions, or foot injuries, options may include:
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Peripheral nerve stimulation
- Other interventional pain therapies
A specialist can help determine the right approach based on your level of nerve damage and daily function.
Who performs spinal cord stimulator procedures, and what should I look for?
Spinal cord stimulator procedures are typically performed by interventional pain specialists, anesthesiologists, or neurosurgeons. To ensure the best outcome, look for an Ohio provider with experience in spinal cord stimulation therapy and minimally invasive techniques.
What conditions are commonly treated with spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation therapy is used to manage several chronic pain conditions, including:
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Painful diabetic neuropathy
- Post-surgical nerve pain
- Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)
- Spinal pain or nerve root compression
- Neuromuscular pain syndromes
- Chronic neck pain related to nerve irritation or compression
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Phantom limb pain
- Post-amputation pain
- Refractory angina (chronic chest pain not relieved by medication or surgery)
How do I know if I am a candidate for spinal cord stimulation?
You may be a candidate for spinal cord stimulation therapy if:
- You have chronic neuropathy pain that hasn’t improved with pain medications or physical therapy.
- You experience painful diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage affecting daily activities.
- Your doctor has recommended nerve pain management options beyond medication.
Our Ohio neuropathy specialists evaluate each patient carefully to determine if spinal cord stimulation is the right treatment option.
Does insurance cover spinal cord stimulation?
Many insurance providers, including Medicare and private insurance, cover spinal cord stimulation for neuropathy and chronic pain when medically necessary. Our Ohio team of specialists can help verify your insurance coverage and discuss financing options if needed.
What are the risks of spinal cord stimulation?
Though generally safe, spinal cord stimulation carries potential risks, such as:
- Infection at the implant site
- Bleeding or fluid buildup
- Lead migration (requiring adjustment)
- Mild discomfort during recovery
Your specialist will assess risks based on your medical history and provide guidance throughout the process.
What are the side effects of spinal cord stimulation?
Most patients tolerate spinal cord stimulation well, but some may experience:
- Tingling sensations (paresthesia) in the treated area
- Mild discomfort or soreness after the procedure
- Changes in stimulation effectiveness over time
- Skin irritation or sensitivity near the implant site
Our team in Ohio provides detailed post-procedure instructions and ongoing support to help manage any side effects.
What should I do if I experience side effects from my spinal cord stimulator?
Contact your neuropathy doctor if you experience discomfort, reduced effectiveness, or any unexpected changes. Your doctor may:
- Reprogram the device
- Check the implant site for issues
- Recommend additional care options
How do doctors minimize risks during the SCS procedure?
Skilled providers use image-guided technology and minimally invasive methods to ensure accurate lead placement and reduce complications. Choosing an experienced clinic in Ohio for spinal cord stimulator procedures can help ensure a safe and effective outcome.
Next steps
If you’re looking for a neuropathy doctor near you or exploring spinal cord stimulation therapy as a potential solution for chronic pain, now’s the time to take action. Schedule a consultation with a specialist in Ohio to learn whether this could be an effective treatment for your symptoms and overall quality of life.
