Are you considering a spinal cord stimulator? It’s a pain management solution that has the potential to relieve even the toughest chronic pain — but it’s important to do your research before moving ahead with this treatment.
Eric Fanaee, MD, and our team specialize in spinal cord stimulation and pain management in Bethpage, Smithtown, and West Islip, New York, and we’re here to help you get answers to your questions.
A spinal cord stimulator can significantly improve quality of life, but at the same time, it’s important to understand both how it works and the limitations it imposes. Here’s what you should know.
A spinal cord stimulator is a small device implanted under your skin. The device consists of a pulse generator placed in your abdomen or buttocks and thin wires, or electrodes, placed near your spinal cord.
Dr. Fanaee often recommends spinal cord stimulation for people who haven’t found pain relief through other treatments like medications, physical therapy, or surgeries. The device allows you to control your pain levels with a handheld remote, and you can adjust the intensity and location of the stimulation.
The main goal of treatment is to reduce chronic pain, particularly in your back, legs, or arms. Spinal cord stimulation works by sending electrical impulses to your spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the pain signals traveling to your brain, effectively masking the pain.
When conservative treatment isn’t enough to manage your chronic pain, a spinal cord stimulator could be a good option for you. However, there are certain limitations and precautions to be aware of.
Because spinal cord stimulation involves getting a device implanted into your body, there are some things you can’t do following the procedure. Here are a few things to consider:
Dr. Fanaee typically advises patients to avoid activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or bending after getting a spinal cord stimulator. These movements can displace the electrodes and affect the performance of the device.
That means you should approach activities that pose a risk of falls or significant physical strain with caution, and you should avoid high-impact sports and activities that could jostle your body excessively.
Certain medical procedures and diagnostic tests can interfere with your spinal cord stimulator. For example, MRI scans are generally contraindicated because the strong magnetic fields can disrupt the device. Some newer spinal cord stimulator models are MRI-compatible, but it’s important to verify before any procedure.
Everyday devices that generate strong electrical or magnetic fields can potentially interfere with your spinal cord stimulator. While most household electronics, such as microwaves and cell phones, are safe to use, it’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the device manufacturer.
We also recommend that you avoid standing close to large industrial motors, power generators, and other similar equipment to prevent interference.
Traveling with a spinal cord stimulator requires some planning. Metal detectors and security scanners at airports can interfere with the device, so you should carry an identification card that explains your condition and the presence of the implant.
To make traveling easier, we often recommend simply informing security personnel and requesting a manual pat-down instead of passing through the scanners.
Spinal cord stimulation can be very effective for chronic pain. About half of people experience at least 50% improvement in their pain, but it’s important to consider the limitations and adjustments required when living with a spinal cord stimulator.
Dr. Fanaee and our team offer comprehensive pain management consultations to help you weigh your options. During your consultation, we discuss your specific condition, lifestyle, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of the device. We can offer personalized advice to help you make a more informed decision.
Spinal cord stimulation could significantly improve your quality of life if you have chronic pain, but the treatment comes with certain precautions. If you’re considering a spinal cord stimulator, schedule a consultation with Dr. Fanaee and our team to explore your options in depth.
