If you’ve been living with chronic pain despite medications, physical therapy, or other treatments, a spinal cord stimulator may be the next step toward lasting relief. But like any advanced medical therapy, it’s important to ask the right questions before moving forward.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we offer expert non-surgical pain management throughout Marietta and the greater Atlanta area. Our dedicated Marietta care team includes pain management expert Dr. Paul L. Mefferd, DO and experienced physician assistant Stephanie Polsinelli Powers, MPAC, who are here to guide you through every step of the process. Call us at (770) 679-7000 or request an appointment online to determine if spinal cord stimulation therapy is the right choice for you.
Below, we share five essential questions to ask your doctor to ensure you're making a confident, informed decision.
1. How Does the Spinal Cord Stimulator Work—and What Are the Success Rates?
Spinal cord stimulators use mild electrical impulses to block or modify pain signals before they reach the brain. These devices, such as spinal cord stimulators, are often recommended when pain medications or other treatments have failed to provide adequate pain relief.
The implant procedure is minimally invasive and typically performed on an outpatient basis. Most chronic pain patients begin with a trial stimulator, using an external device for about a week to determine if the treatment reduces pain effectively. If successful, a permanent implant is considered.
Clinical studies show that spinal cord stimulation therapy offers long-term pain relief for many chronic pain conditions, especially those involving the spine or nerves, such as back pain, diabetic neuropathy, and post-surgical pain.
Ask your doctor:
- What type of spinal cord stimulator is best for my condition?
- What is the expected success rate for someone with my diagnosis?
2. What Are the Risks and Potential Side Effects?
Like any medical treatment, a spinal cord stimulator implant comes with potential risks and complications. While most people tolerate the procedure well, side effects may include:
- Infection at the incision site
- Lead migration or device malfunction
- Skin irritation or sensitivity
- Discomfort at the implant site
Additionally, patients with certain devices may need to take precautions during MRI scans or X-rays depending on the model used.
Though risks are relatively low, it's crucial to discuss your medical history and current medications to determine if you're a good candidate.
Ask your doctor:
- What are the possible side effects or complications for someone with my health profile?
- How often do these complications occur?
3. What Will Recovery Look Like?
After your permanent implant procedure, you’ll need time to rest and allow your body to adjust. The recovery period typically involves:
- Limited activity for a few weeks
- Instructions on caring for the incision site
- Gradual return to daily routines with support from your healthcare team
Most patients can resume light activities within days and experience significant pain relief shortly after their stimulator is activated. You may work with your doctor to optimize device settings as your healing progresses.
Ask your doctor:
- What should I expect during the post-procedure recovery?
- Will I need to adjust my lifestyle or activities temporarily?
4. Will My Insurance Cover the Procedure?
Cost is a key consideration for most patients. Spinal cord stimulator devices and procedures are often covered by insurance, especially when used for treatment-resistant conditions, but coverage can vary based on your plan and the specific type of stimulator.
Before scheduling your implant procedure, consult both your provider and insurance company to clarify:
- Co-pays or deductibles
- Coverage of the trial period
- Device maintenance or battery replacement (often needed every 3–10 years)
Ask your doctor and insurance rep:
- What costs should I expect?
- Is the trial stimulator and permanent device covered?
5. What Makes Me a Good Candidate for a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
Not every chronic pain patient will benefit from a spinal cord stimulator. These devices are often reserved for those who:
- Have not found relief from medications or physical therapy
- Want to avoid more invasive surgical procedures
- Have localized, nerve-based pain
During your evaluation, your doctor will consider your diagnosis, previous treatments, and overall health. This ensures your selected treatment provides the best pain relief while minimizing risks.
Ask your doctor:
- Based on my condition and history, is this the right treatment?
- What results have other patients with similar conditions experienced?
Ready to Ask the Right Questions About Pain Relief?
Spinal cord stimulation therapy can be life-changing for patients managing chronic pain, especially when medications and other treatments fall short. Our experienced team, led by Marietta specialists Dr. Paul L. Mefferd, DO, and Stephanie Polsinelli Powers, MPAC, is here to support you every step of the way.
To speak with a provider about spinal cord stimulation, schedule your consultation with The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists today.
