What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an advanced, minimally invasive therapy designed to relieve chronic pain that doesn't respond to other treatments. This treatment involves placing a small device near the spinal cord that sends gentle electrical pulses to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain.
At Premier Pain Centers, our spine treatment specialists in Dallas, Richardson, Waxahachie, Plano, Mesquite, Kaufman, and Ennis personalize spinal cord stimulation to each patient’s needs. The therapy is reversible and adjustable, allowing long-term comfort and better control of pain associated with failed back surgery syndrome, neuropathy, and complex regional pain syndrome.
How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?
The spinal cord stimulator works by altering the communication between the nerves and the brain. Thin insulated wires (leads) are placed close to the spinal cord, while a small generator is implanted under the skin, usually near the abdomen or buttocks. Once activated, the device sends mild electrical impulses that block or modify pain signals without affecting normal movement or muscle strength.
This technology helps maintain steady pain relief during different activities such as walking, sitting, or sleeping. Our spinal cord stimulator doctors in Dallas and nearby cities carefully program and fine-tune your device to match your pain pattern, maintaining comfort throughout daily life. Over time, the stimulation can help restore mobility, improve mood, and reduce dependence on medications.
Types of Spinal Cord Stimulation Systems
Our spinal cord stimulation specialists in Dallas offer a variety of modern systems to suit individual pain needs and activity levels. Each system is designed to target pain effectively while providing flexibility and long-lasting results.
Conventional Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG)
A simple and reliable system placed under the skin, powered by a non-rechargeable battery. It’s ideal for moderate pain affecting one or two regions such as the lower back or legs. When the battery expires, a short outpatient procedure replaces it with minimal downtime.
Rechargeable IPG
Similar to the traditional IPG but with a rechargeable battery that can be powered externally using a handheld device. It lasts longer, up to 10 years or more, and is suitable for patients with extensive pain areas or higher energy requirements.
Closed-Loop Stimulators
Advanced systems that automatically adjust stimulation based on nerve activity and body movement. This technology maintains consistent pain relief even when you change posture or perform physical activities.
Burst or High-Frequency Stimulators
The newest generation of stimulators that deliver high-frequency pulses to eliminate the tingling sensation (paresthesia) associated with older models. This system provides smoother, more natural relief that feels almost unnoticeable to the patient.
Conditions Treated with Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain can be an excellent option when conventional therapies or surgeries have failed. Patients looking for spinal cord stimulator doctors near me can rely on the experienced specialists at Premier Pain Centers in Dallas, Richardson, Ennis, and Kaufman for advanced, evidence-based care that helps restore comfort and mobility. Our team treats a wide range of conditions, including:
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Peripheral Neuropathy
Chronic Back and Leg Pain
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Angina and other neuropathic pain conditions
Spinal Cord Stimulation Procedure: Step-by-Step
Our spine surgery specialists use a patient-centered process that prioritizes comfort, safety, and results at every stage of care. Here’s what you can expect from your spinal cord stimulator procedure:
Consultation
You’ll meet with a board-certified spine specialist to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and prior treatments. If SCS therapy seems suitable, your doctor will explain the options and expected outcomes in detail.
Trial Phase
A temporary stimulator is placed through a minimally invasive procedure. Leads are positioned near the spinal cord, and an external device sends impulses for 5–7 days to test the effectiveness. You’ll record how much pain relief and mobility improvement you experience.
Evaluation
After the trial period, you and your doctor review the results. If your pain decreases by 50% or more, the treatment is considered successful, and you can move forward with the permanent implant.
Permanent Implantation
During a short outpatient surgery, the leads are permanently implanted, and a small generator is placed under the skin. This generator is either rechargeable or non-rechargeable depending on your selected device.
Programming & Recovery
After surgery, the system is programmed to deliver optimal stimulation based on your pain pattern. Regular adjustments and follow-up visits help maintain consistent results and ensure your device continues to perform effectively.
Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation
Many patients across Dallas, Kaufman, Ennis, and Richardson report that spinal cord stimulation has helped them regain independence and enjoy a better quality of life. Spinal cord stimulator implants provide life-changing relief for those struggling with chronic pain. The key benefits include:
Significant reduction in back pain, leg, or nerve pain
Minimally invasive procedure with fast recovery
Personalized and adjustable treatment settings
Drug-free option for long-term relief
Reversible and safe technology
Improved ability to walk, work, and live actively again
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Recovery After Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery
Our spinal cord stimulation doctors in Richardson and nearby areas provide detailed post-operative care to maintain safe healing and long-term success. Recovery from SCS surgery is generally smooth. You may experience mild soreness around the incision, which typically resolves within one to two weeks. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days, while strenuous exercises and lifting should be avoided for about four to six weeks.
Rest adequately during the first few days after surgery.
Follow all incision care instructions to avoid infection
Avoid twisting, stretching, or lifting heavy items.
Take light walks to improve blood flow and aid recovery.
Report any unusual swelling or redness to your doctor immediately.
Attend scheduled follow-ups for device adjustments or reprogramming.
Why Choose Premier Pain Centers for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
At Premier Pain Centers, patients choose us because we provide advanced care supported by compassion and precision. Here’s what makes our clinics stand out:
Board-Certified Specialists
Modern Technology
Minimally Invasive Options
Comprehensive Support
Convenient Texas Locations
Personalized Treatment Plans
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Living with chronic pain can make even simple daily activities feel overwhelming. Spinal cord stimulation offers a proven, minimally invasive way to restore comfort and improve quality of life without heavy reliance on medications. At Premier Pain Centers, our board-certified specialists proudly serve patients across Dallas, Richardson, North Richland Hills, Waxahachie, Fort Worth, Hillsboro, Desoto, Corsicana, Decatur, Cleburne, Plano, Ennis, Mesquite, Gun Barrel City, and Kaufman, providing advanced, evidence-based treatments designed to help you live pain-free again.
Our team has helped patients throughout North Texas, from Plano to Waxahachie, achieve lasting pain relief after auto accidents.
Physician Referrals and Patient Coordination
At Premier Pain Centers, we partner with physicians to provide expert pain management, seamless communication, and personalized care enhancing patients’ lives.
Physicians can easily refer patients to our clinics or help new patients complete their intake process through the options below.