An Advanced Option for Chronic Pain
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Lasting Relief
For patients living with chronic back or neck pain that hasn't responded well to other treatments, spinal cord stimulation offers an advanced option for interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. This treatment can provide meaningful, long-term relief for patients who've exhausted more conservative approaches.
Dr. Nishant Gandhi offers spinal cord stimulation to patients throughout Wexford and the greater Pittsburgh area dealing with chronic pain conditions, including complex regional pain syndrome and post-laminectomy syndrome. He works closely with each patient to determine whether this treatment is the right fit for their specific condition.
If chronic pain has persisted despite other treatments, schedule an appointment today to find out if spinal cord stimulation could help.
How This Treatment Works
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation uses a small device, implanted just beneath the skin, to send mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, which can significantly reduce the sensation of chronic pain. Many patients describe the effect as replacing pain with a mild tingling sensation, or in some cases, no unusual sensation at all.
Conditions We Treat With This Procedure
Spinal cord stimulation is often considered for patients with chronic pain conditions that haven't responded well to other treatments, including:
- Post-laminectomy syndrome, in which pain persists or returns after spine surgery
- Complex regional pain syndrome, a chronic condition marked by disproportionate, ongoing pain
- Peripheral neuropathy, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Chronic nerve-related pain that hasn't improved with injections or other interventional treatments
The Trial Period
Before a permanent device is implanted, most patients undergo a short trial period using a temporary system. This allows both the patient and Dr. Gandhi to evaluate how effectively the treatment reduces pain before committing to a permanent implant. If the trial provides meaningful relief, the next step is typically a minor outpatient procedure to implant the permanent device.
What to Expect After Treatment
Following implantation, most patients can resume light activity within a short period, with your provider providing specific guidance based on your procedure. The device can typically be adjusted over time to help manage changes in pain levels, and many patients find that spinal cord stimulation allows them to reduce their reliance on pain medication. Patients whose pain involves a specific facet joint may also want to learn more about radiofrequency ablation as an alternative or complementary treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I'm a candidate for spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is typically considered for patients with chronic pain that hasn't responded well to more conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or injections. Conditions like post-laminectomy syndrome and complex regional pain syndrome are common reasons patients pursue this treatment. Dr. Gandhi will evaluate your specific history and condition to determine if this is a good option for you.
What does the trial period for spinal cord stimulation involve?
The trial period uses a temporary device to test how effectively spinal cord stimulation reduces your pain before committing to a permanent implant. This typically lasts about a week and allows you to go about your daily activities while tracking your response to treatment. If you experience meaningful relief during the trial, your provider will discuss moving forward with a permanent device.
Is spinal cord stimulation reversible?
Yes, spinal cord stimulation is considered a reversible treatment. The device can be turned off, adjusted, or removed if needed, which is part of why the trial period is such an important step before permanent implantation. Dr. Gandhi will discuss the full process, including what happens if the treatment needs to be adjusted or discontinued.
How do I schedule an appointment to learn more about spinal cord stimulation?
Scheduling with Dr. Gandhi in Wexford is simple. We offer convenient online scheduling, so you can book an appointment at a time that works for you. Most new patients are seen within two weeks, so you won't have to wait long to explore your treatment options. The team looks forward to helping you find relief.