TL;DR Quick answer
An implanted device that uses mild electrical pulses to reduce long-term nerve pain. It is commonly used for chronic back pain, neuropathic pain and complex regional pain syndrome. The procedure is day care or overnight. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation places thin leads in the epidural space connected to a small battery. Mild electrical pulses change how pain signals are processed. It may be considered for persistent pain after spine surgery, complex regional pain syndrome and some neuropathic pain, after other treatments have been tried.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Trial | About 5–7 days with temporary leads |
| Implant | Separate procedure if the trial helps |
| Anaesthesia | Local or general |
| Hospital stay | Day care or overnight |
| Commonly used for | Chronic Back Pain, Neuropathic Pain, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- A trial first, before any permanent implant
- Adjustable to your needs
- Reversible: the system can be removed
- May reduce reliance on pain medicines
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
A trial with temporary leads usually comes first. If the trial gives good relief, a permanent system is implanted in a separate procedure.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Infection, lead movement, device problems and, rarely, nerve injury. The device needs regular follow-up. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth Spinal cord stimulation is major spine surgery.
Fact The leads are placed through a needle or small incision, and a trial is done first to see whether it helps.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic Back Pain | Back pain that lasts longer than three months, often affecting sleep, work and movement. | A constant dull ache or episodes of sharp pain; stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting |
| Neuropathic Pain | Burning, shooting or electric pain caused by damage or dysfunction of the nerves. | Burning, shooting or electric-shock sensations; pain from light touch (allodynia) |
| Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | Severe, persistent limb pain with changes in skin colour, temperature or swelling. | Pain out of proportion to the injury; swelling, colour or temperature changes |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.