Spinal Cord Stimulation in Lyndhurst, NJ
Our Approach to Spinal Cord Stimulation
At CORE Medical & Wellness, we use the most advanced spinal cord stimulation technology and techniques to provide personalized pain relief solutions for patients with complex chronic pain conditions.
Careful Patient Selection
Spinal cord stimulation is a significant treatment decision that requires thorough evaluation. We carefully assess each patient's pain condition, previous treatments, psychological factors, and overall suitability to ensure optimal outcomes.
Trial Period Before Permanent Implant
Every patient undergoes a trial period with temporary leads to test their response to SCS before considering permanent implantation. This allows you to experience the therapy and ensure it provides meaningful relief before making a long-term commitment.
Advanced Technology Options
We offer the latest spinal cord stimulation technologies, including high-frequency stimulation, burst stimulation, and closed-loop systems that can adapt to your body's changing needs throughout the day.
Comprehensive Support and Follow-up
Our commitment extends beyond the implant procedure. We provide extensive education, programming optimization, and long-term follow-up care to ensure you achieve the best possible outcomes from your SCS system.
Our fellowship-trained pain management specialists, Dr. Richard Kang and Dr. Shelly Sharma, have extensive experience with spinal cord stimulation and stay current with the latest advances in neuromodulation therapy.
Evaluation and Treatment Process
This diagnostic technique identifies the source of facet joint and back pain. It can pinpoint pain-causing issues and potentially offer relief. Depending on individual factors, patients experiencing relief might qualify for radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
Comprehensive Pain Assessment
Our evaluation includes detailed assessment of your pain history, previous treatments, functional limitations, and how chronic pain affects your daily life and relationships.
Psychological Evaluation
A psychological assessment helps ensure you have realistic expectations and the coping skills needed to maximize success with spinal cord stimulation therapy.
Advanced Imaging Review
- MRI Analysis: Detailed review of spinal anatomy and previous surgical changes
- CT Scans: Assessment of spinal hardware or anatomical considerations
- X-rays: Evaluation of spinal alignment and structural factors
Medical Optimization
We ensure that other treatable factors contributing to your pain are addressed before considering SCS, maximizing your potential for success.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Process
Trial Phase
Lead Placement: During the trial, thin wires are placed in the epidural space through a minor procedure. These temporary leads are connected to an external stimulator that you wear for about a week.
Trial Period: Assessment You'll test the stimulation in your normal environment, assessing pain relief, functional improvement, and how the therapy affects your daily activities.
Success Criteria: A successful trial typically involves at least 50% pain reduction and meaningful improvement in function and quality of life.
Permanent Implantation
Generator Placement: If the trial is successful, the permanent system is implanted. The generator (similar to a pacemaker) is placed under the skin, typically in the lower back or buttock area.
Lead Positioning: Permanent leads are placed in the optimal position determined during your trial, ensuring the best possible pain coverage.
System Programming: The device is programmed to provide personalized stimulation patterns that maximize your pain relief while minimizing any unwanted sensations.
Advanced SCS Technologies
High-Frequency Stimulation
Modern systems can deliver high-frequency stimulation that provides pain relief without the tingling sensation associated with traditional SCS.
Burst Stimulation
Advanced stimulation patterns that more closely mimic natural nerve firing, potentially providing superior pain relief for certain conditions.
Closed-Loop Systems
Sophisticated devices that can monitor your body's response and automatically adjust stimulation for optimal pain control throughout the day.
Rechargeable vs. Non-Rechargeable Options
We offer both battery types, with rechargeable systems providing longer device life and smaller generators, while non-rechargeable systems eliminate the need for regular charging.
Why Choose CORE Medical & Wellness
Fellowship-Trained Expertise
Our pain management physicians completed specialized interventional pain fellowships and have extensive experience with spinal cord stimulation procedures and programming.
Comprehensive SCS Program
We offer complete spinal cord stimulation services, from initial evaluation through long-term device management, ensuring continuity of care throughout your treatment journey.
Latest Technology Access
We stay current with the newest SCS technologies and techniques, offering our patients access to the most advanced neuromodulation therapies available.
Personalized Care Approach
We recognize that every chronic pain patient is unique. Our treatment plans are individualized based on your specific pain condition, lifestyle, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is an implantable device therapy that uses mild electrical impulses to interrupt chronic pain signals before they reach the brain, providing significant pain relief for appropriately selected patients.
How is spinal cord stimulation performed?
The procedure involves placing thin wires in the epidural space and implanting a small generator device. Every patient first undergoes a trial period to test effectiveness before permanent implantation.
What should I expect during SCS evaluation and trial?
The evaluation process includes comprehensive pain assessment, psychological evaluation, and medical optimization. The trial involves temporary lead placement and about a week of testing in your normal environment.
What should I expect after spinal cord stimulation implant?
Most patients experience significant pain reduction and improved function. The device can be programmed and adjusted to optimize your pain relief, and you'll learn to use the patient controller to manage your therapy.
How long do spinal cord stimulators last?
Device longevity depends on the type of battery. Rechargeable systems can last 10+ years, while non-rechargeable systems typically last 3-5 years. The leads often last much longer than the generators.
Does insurance cover spinal cord stimulation?
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary spinal cord stimulation for appropriately selected patients when conservative treatments have been tried. Our staff will verify coverage and handle prior authorization requirements.
