How Are Spinal Cord Stimulators Different from Peripheral Nerve Stimulators?
Chronic pain can make daily life feel overwhelming, but finding the right treatment to manage that pain can help restore your freedom and activity. Spinal cord stimulators and peripheral nerve stimulators can help you curb discomfort by blocking pain signals from reaching your brain.
A spinal cord stimulator is designed to alleviate pain originating from the spine or affecting larger areas of the body. In contrast, a peripheral nerve stimulator targets smaller, specific nerves to provide relief in localized areas, such as the knee or shoulder.
Understanding how these devices work can help you determine which option is best suited for your needs. If you want help with choosing the right pain relief option, Advanced Pain Care can help. Schedule a consultation with us to learn which treatment could work for you.
Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulators (SCS)
Spinal cord stimulators are devices designed to manage chronic (long-term) pain. They work by sending mild electrical signals to the spinal cord, blocking pain messages from reaching the brain. This process often replaces the sensation of pain with a light, tingling feeling.
Conditions Treated with Spinal Cord Stimulators
SCS helps people with:
- Long-term lower back pain
- Pain from nerve issues like sciatica
- Pain after back surgery
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
For those who haven’t found relief through other treatments, spinal cord stimulation offers an effective way to address pain directly at its source.
Procedure Overview for Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant
The process of receiving a spinal cord stimulator implant involves two key steps. First, a temporary device is implanted to assess whether it effectively reduces your pain. If successful, a permanent SCS is then placed under the skin. Thin wires connected to the device deliver electrical signals to the spinal cord, helping block pain signals before they reach the brain.
After spinal cord stimulator surgery, recovery typically lasts a few weeks. During this period, your doctor will fine-tune the device settings to optimize pain relief and ensure you’re getting the most effective results. Understanding Peripheral Nerve Stimulators (PNS)
Peripheral nerve stimulators help manage pain by targeting specific nerves outside of the spinal area. They send electrical signals to these smaller nerves, blocking pain in a localized part of the body.
Conditions Treated with Peripheral Nerve Stimulators
PNS helps with:
- Ongoing pain in joints like knees or shoulders
- Pain after surgery, especially in arms or legs
- Nerve pain from injuries or conditions like neuropathy
- Headaches and certain face pain
If your pain is concentrated in a specific area, peripheral nerve stimulation provides a more focused and effective method for managing it.
Procedure Overview for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Similar to SCS, peripheral nerve stimulators are implanted in two phases. First, a temporary device is placed to test its effectiveness. If the trial is successful, a permanent device is implanted under the skin near the affected nerve. Small wires are positioned next to the nerve, delivering electrical signals to block the pain.
Most people experience a swift recovery after this procedure, often starting to feel pain relief within just a few days.
SCS vs. PNS
Both spinal cord stimulators and peripheral nerve stimulators work by sending electrical signals to block pain. However, there are key differences in how they work.
Features | SCS | PNS |
| Targeted Area | Centralized targeting of the spinal cord. | Targeting of specific peripheral nerves. |
| Technology and Mechanism | Broad pain coverage with spinal signals. | Localized pain relief with nerve signals. |
| Procedure | The trial phase is followed by a spinal implant. | Quick trial, focused nerve placement. |
| Recovery | Longer recovery due to spine involvement. | Shorter recovery from the focused area. |
Choose the Right Treatment at Advanced Pain Care
Choosing between spinal cord stimulation and peripheral nerve stimulation depends on several factors, including the severity and location of your pain, as well as your specific needs and treatment goals. If you experience widespread pain that originates from the spine or affects a large area, spinal cord stimulators may be the more suitable option.. These devices are specifically designed to manage diffuse pain across a broader region of your body.
On the other hand, if your pain is localized to a specific area, like your knee or shoulder, peripheral nerve stimulators may provide more targeted relief. These devices are aimed at particular nerves to relieve pain in a localized area.
It is crucial to consult with a pain specialist to determine which treatment is best for you. They will assess your current condition as well as your medical history to recommend the most suitable option.
Conclusion
SCS and PNS devices can provide you with the best treatment for your pain. They can block pain and improve your quality of life, but they work in different ways. Spinal cord stimulation is better for pain that affects larger areas, like your back or legs. On the other hand, peripheral nerve stimulation targets pain in smaller areas, like your knee or shoulder. Both treatments can bring relief, but the best option depends on the location of your pain and your individual needs.
If you’re struggling with chronic pain, talk to a pain specialist and find out which treatment might help you feel better and get back to your life. Contact Advanced Pain Care in Austin now.
