Spinal Cord Stimulation: A New Option for Chronic Pain Relief

Written By Premier Spine

Living with ongoing back, neck, or nerve pain can take over your life. When pain doesn’t improve with therapy, injections, or medication, it’s normal to feel frustrated and worn down.

At Premier Spine, we offer spinal cord stimulation as an advanced, highly effective option for patients with chronic pain, especially those in the Stevens Point, WI area who are looking for real answers and long-term relief.

What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is a small medical device that helps reduce pain by changing how pain signals travel to the brain.

Pain signals start in the nerves and move up the spine. A spinal cord stimulator gently interrupts those signals so the brain feels less pain.

Many patients notice:

  • Less constant pain

  • Less burning or tingling

  • Better comfort with daily activities

The goal is not to mask pain, but to help you live better with less pain.

Who Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator For?

Spinal cord stimulators are most helpful for people with chronic pain that has lasted months or years.

You may be a good candidate if:

  • Your pain has lasted 6 months or longer

  • Pain affects sleep, work, or daily life

  • Physical therapy, medications, or injections have not helped enough

  • You want to reduce reliance on pain medication

  • You have nerve pain in the back, neck, arms, or legs

  • You still have pain after spine surgery

A full evaluation with a spine specialist helps decide if this option is right for you.

Conditions Treated With Spinal Cord Stimulation

At Premier Spine, spinal cord stimulators are commonly used for:

  • Chronic low back pain

  • Chronic neck pain

  • Arm or leg nerve pain

  • Pain after spine surgery

  • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

Every patient is different. That’s why treatment plans are personalized.

What Makes Spinal Cord Stimulators Effective?

Spinal cord stimulation works by calming overactive pain nerves.

This can lead to:

  • Significant pain reduction

  • Improved movement and function

  • Better sleep and quality of life

  • Less need for pain medication

Many patients report meaningful improvement after treatment.

What Is the Process Like?

Step 1: Careful Evaluation

Your Premier Spine doctor takes time to understand your pain, history, and goals. Imaging and exams help confirm whether SCS is appropriate.

Step 2: Trial First—No Guessing

Before anything permanent, you complete a temporary trial. This lets you test how well the stimulator controls your pain during normal activities.

Step 3: Permanent Placement

If the trial is successful, the permanent device is placed using a minimally invasive procedure.

You’re supported and guided at every step.

Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Safe?

Spinal cord stimulators have been used safely for decades and continue to improve with new technology.

They are:

  • FDA-approved

  • Adjustable to your needs

  • Designed for long-term use

Your doctor will review benefits, risks, and expectations so you can make an informed decision.

Common Questions Patients Ask

Will a spinal cord stimulator cure my pain?
It doesn’t cure the cause of pain, but it can greatly reduce how much pain you feel.

Can I try it first?
Yes. Every patient completes a trial before moving forward.

Will I feel the device?
Most patients say they are not aware of it once healing is complete.

Can I stay active?
Yes. Many patients return to daily activities with improved comfort.

Is it permanent?
The device can be adjusted or removed if needed.

Why Patients Choose Premier Spine

At Premier Spine, spinal cord stimulators are placed by industry-leading spine specialists with advanced training in spine and nerve care.

Patients across Stevens Point and central Wisconsin choose Premier Spine because we offer:

  • Expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options

  • Precision-guided procedures

  • Personalized, honest recommendations

  • Compassionate care from start to finish

We focus on long-term relief—not quick fixes.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If chronic pain is limiting your life, it may be time to explore advanced options.

Schedule a consultation with Premier Spine to learn whether a spinal cord stimulator could help you move, sleep, and live with less pain.

Relief is possible, and it starts with a conversation.

Premier Spine
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