Spinal Cord Stimulation in San Marcos, TX

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Are you or a loved one struggling with chronic pain in the San Marcos area? At Greater Austin Pain Center, we recognize the profound impact that persistent pain can have on your daily life. If you've explored various treatments with limited success, our Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial and Implantation Services might offer the relief you've been seeking. This innovative pain management approach has been transforming lives for those battling chronic pain and could be a viable solution for you.

Spinal Cord Stimulation is an advanced medical treatment involving the implantation of a device designed to alleviate chronic pain. The device works by sending low-voltage electrical impulses to the spinal cord, effectively interfering with pain signal transmission to the brain. By modulating your pain perception, SCS can provide substantial relief for many individuals grappling with chronic pain conditions.

How Does it Work?

Spinal Cord Stimulation functions on a straightforward principle - it introduces controlled electrical pulses to the spinal cord, masking or modifying pain perception. This intervention is achieved through a small implantable device, similar to a pacemaker. The device generates electrical signals that target the affected area, disrupting pain signals and replacing them with a more manageable tingling sensation known as paresthesia.

The goal of SCS is not to eliminate the underlying condition causing pain but to significantly reduce the intensity of pain experienced. Many patients report a dramatic improvement in their pain symptoms, allowing them to reclaim their quality of life and potentially reduce their reliance on pain medications.

What Does It Treat?

Spinal Cord Stimulation is a versatile solution that can address a range of chronic pain conditions. It's typically recommended for individuals who haven't responded well to other conservative pain management methods. Conditions that may benefit from SCS include:

Back pain
Nerve-related pain
Post-surgical pain
Arachnoiditis
Spinal cord injuries
Peripheral vascular disease
Perineal pain
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy

While SCS may not be suitable for every patient, it offers an excellent option for those struggling with these and other chronic pain conditions.

What To Expect

Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial period:

Before proceeding with permanent implantation, patients typically undergo a 7-day trial period. During this time, a temporary electrode is placed within the epidural space, and the device is worn externally. This trial usually lasts about a week, aiming to determine if SCS effectively manages your pain. If you experience significant relief during the trial, you can move forward with permanent implantation.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation:

Following a successful trial period, the next step is the implantation procedure. This is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that involves inserting the permanent device: a small generator and electrode placed discreetly under your skin.

Recovery Time & Care

After the spinal cord stimulator implantation procedure, you can expect a relatively short recovery time. Most patients can return to regular activities within a few days to a week. We'll provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process, but generally, you'll need to avoid the following activities for at least the first few weeks after procedure:

Lifting heavy objects greater than five pounds
Athletic activities that could move the SCS device
Sudden jerking motions like twisting and bending
Extended periods of sitting still
Lifting your arms above your head
Drive for extended periods

You can discuss any specific activities you need to do for work or home life with one of our pain doctors prior to the procedure.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Find Out If You're A Good Candidate for our Spinal Cord Stimulation Implants

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we aim to make exploring Spinal Cord Stimulation as smooth and straightforward as possible. That's why our process involves just three simple steps:

Schedule an Appointment

Contact us to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced pain doctors. During your consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your chronic pain condition, medical history, and any previous treatments or therapies you've tried.

Trial Placement

If our experts determine that you might benefit from Spinal Cord Stimulation, the next step is the trial placement. During this phase, you'll wear a temporary external SCS device, which will allow us to assess how well the stimulator manages your pain over a few days.

Permanent Implant

After a successful trial experience, we can move forward with the permanent implantation procedure. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure involves the insertion of the permanent SCS device, which will be carefully positioned to ensure optimal pain relief while minimizing discomfort.

The entire process, from consultation to permanent implantation, will be guided by our dedicated team of healthcare professionals. You can trust us to provide expert care while prioritizing your comfort and well-being at every step of the journey. Contact us today to schedule your Spinal Cord Stimulation consultation!

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Spinal Cord Stimulation a permanent solution for pain?

Spinal Cord Stimulation is not a cure for the underlying conditions causing pain, but it can provide long-term pain relief for many individuals. It offers a way to manage chronic pain effectively, reduce the need for pain medications, and improve your overall quality of life.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with SCS?

While Spinal Cord Stimulation is generally considered safe, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. We can discuss these risks with you in detail before the procedure.

Will I need to make lifestyle adjustments with an implanted SCS device?

In most cases, patients can lead relatively normal lives with an implanted SCS device. However, it's essential to avoid activities that may damage the device, and attend regular follow-up appointments to ensure it's functioning properly.

Can anyone undergo your Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial?

Not everyone is a candidate for SCS. The best way to determine if it's the right option for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced pain specialists who can assess your condition and your health to determine if you're a good candidate.

Can I return to daily activities after it’s implanted?

While most physical activities are considered safe following the procedure, we will let you know when it is okay to resume all everyday activities and which to avoid immediately after your procedure.

Does insurance cover spinal cord stimulators?

Spinal cord stimulators have been approved under CPT code 63650, for Medicare patients, and we work with both Medicare and most insurance plans. Contact us for more information about whether Spinal Cord Stimulation is covered by your insurance plan.