Patient Information Resources


Spine Institute
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1500 E. Chevy Chase Drive, Suite 401B
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 863-4444






Spine - Cervical
Spine - General
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic

View Web RX

« Back

I signed up for a study using a nerve stimulator inside my spinal cord. It's supposed to help reduce my back and leg pain by as much as 50 per cent. The brochure says some people aren't eligible for this treatment. How do they decide who is and who isn't eligible?

You may be referring to a spinal cord stimulator (SCS). This device is also called a dorsal column stimulator.It is an implanted electronic device used to help treat chronic pain.

The device delivers a low level electrical current through wires placed near the spinal cord. The pulse generator is about the size of a 50-cent piece.

The spinal cord stimulator will not cure your pain. Most people report at least a 50 percent decrease in pain. This should allow you to be more active. The need for less pain medication is also considered a successful result. Before having the device implanted, a trial is done with an external device for about a week.

If you do not obtain at least a 50 per cent decrease in painful symptoms, then you may not be eligible for internal implantation. Other factors that may be considered are the ability to operate the system or a psychiatric condition that might affect your ability to use the device.

A past history of blood clots may prevent your participation in the study. The presence of other health problems or conditions may exclude you. This can include conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or lupus. Each study will have its own eligibility requirements. You can ask whoever is setting up the study what are their eligibility and exclusion categories.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.