Mosaic Pain Medicine and Rehabilitation

(516) 202-2418
Refer a Patient
Request Appointment
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Instagram Linkedin-in Jki-facebook-f

Spinal Cord Stimulation

We understand the challenges that chronic pain, such as sciatica or pain from prior back surgery, can bring to your life. One of the most transformative and cutting edge treatments we offer is Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)—a modern therapy that has helped countless individuals manage pain when standard treatments, such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks, are no longer effective.

What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a medical procedure used to manage chronic pain by delivering electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain, providing relief for patients suffering from various chronic pain conditions. SCS is often considered when other pain management treatments have been ineffective.

What Conditions Can Be Treated?

SCS is used to treat a variety of chronic pain conditions, including:

  • Failed Back Surgery Syndrome : Persistent pain following spine surgery.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A chronic pain condition affecting the limbs after an injury.
  • Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage causing burning or tingling sensations.
  • Post-Surgical Pain: Chronic pain persisting after a surgical procedure.
  • Chronic Lower Back Pain
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation

What to Expect During the Procedure

General Overview to the process

1
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Initial Consultation

During your first visit, our team will evaluate your medical history, discuss your pain patterns, and review any imaging studies to determine if Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is the right solution for you. If you are a suitable candidate, we will go over the risks and benefits of the procedure and arrange for the necessary lab tests and MRI studies before proceeding with the SCS trial procedure.

2
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Trial Period

A temporary electrode is placed near the spinal cord through a minimally invasive procedure. The patient tests the device for a few days to determine its effectiveness in reducing pain. If successful, the patient proceeds to the permanent implantation phase.

3
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Permanent Implantation

Under local anesthesia and mild sedation at an ambulatory surgery center, the electrodes are permanently placed in the epidural space of the spinal cord. A small pulse generator (battery pack) is implanted under the skin, typically in the abdomen or buttock area. The system is programmed to deliver electrical impulses that the patient can adjust using a remote control.

4
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
After Permanent Implantation

Once the Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) device is implanted, the settings will be customized to meet your specific pain relief needs while you are in the recovery room at the surgery center. You will receive a remote control with multiple programs and will be educated on how to adjust the settings in real-time to tailor your pain relief. We will partner with a medical device representative in the area who will provide live on going support for the device.

Preparation: Before the Procedure

1
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Medical Evaluation
Your doctor will perform a comprehensive history and physical exam, which may include imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs, to confirm the diagnosis and plan the procedure.
2
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Medications
Inform your physician about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused before the procedure.
3
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Fasting
This is necessary prior to trial and permanent implant.
4
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Clothing & Transportation
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
5
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Consent & Instructions
You will review and sign a consent form and receive detailed guidance on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

During the procedure

The procedure usually lasts about 1 hour, depending whether it is a trial or permanent placement.
1
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Sterile Preparation

The area for injection will be thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic solution to prevent injection. Strict sterile protocol will be observed by all participants with sterile gown and gloves.

2
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Anesthesia

Local anesthesia such as Lidocaine will be injected to numb the area (similar to the numbing you would receive at the dentist) to ensure comfort during the procedure. Moderate sedation will be used for permanent implant.

3
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Guided Injection

Using fluoroscopic (real-time X-ray) guidance the doctor carefully positions a thin needle into the joint space and threads the SCS leads into the epidural space.

4
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Battery implant (permanent implant step)

A pocket above the buttocks will be created to house the battery for the permanent implant.

5
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Bandage

After the injection is complete, the area is cleaned, and a bandage is applied to protect the site.

After the Procedure: Post-Care

1
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Monitoring
You will rest in a recovery area while your are monitored for about 30 minutes. Adjustments to the settings will be done in real time with the med rep.
2
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Pain Relief
Many patients experience significant pain relief immediately, though many also do not feel the full benefits until 1 week. Mild discomfort at the injection site is normal and should subside within a few days.
3
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Activity Restrictions
During trial period avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for the 1 week trial. However, light walking is encouraged to aid recovery.
4
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Follow-Up
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to review the results of the injection and discuss the next steps for long-term pain relief.
Typically, patients return home the same day after surgery, once they have recovered from anesthesia. You will be prescribed antibiotics and advised to rest for proper recovery. Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided to you before discharge from the surgery center.

Advantages of Spinal Cord Stimulation

Significant Pain Reduction

Helps manage chronic pain that has been unresponsive to other treatments.

Reduced Dependence on Pain Medications

May lower the need for opioids and other pain medications.

Minimally Invasive

Less risky compared to major spinal surgeries.

Adjustable Pain Control

Patients can modify stimulation levels according to their needs.

Improved Quality of Life

Enables greater mobility and engagement in daily activities.

Reversible Procedure

The implant can be removed if it does not provide sufficient relief.

Multiple Stimulation Modes

Advanced devices offer different waveforms to optimize pain relief.

What Are the Risks or Side Effects of Spinal Cord Stimulation?

While SCS is generally safe, some potential risks and complications include:
  • Infection: Risk of infection at the implantation site.
  • Lead Migration: Electrodes may shift, reducing effectiveness.
  • Device Malfunction: Electrical components may fail over time.
  • Pain at Implantation Site: Discomfort around the area where the generator is placed.
  • Allergic Reaction: Possible reaction to implanted materials.
  • Tingling Sensation: Some patients experience mild paresthesia instead of pain relief.
These risks will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation appointment.
Request Appointment
F.A.Q

General Questions

Share this page:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Scroll to Top