Many people living with chronic pain depend on medication, but over time, the effects can wear off, side effects can build up, and the relief may no longer feel worth the tradeoff. Fortunately, there are proven alternatives to pain medication, like spinal cord stimulators, that offer long-term relief without the need for daily medication.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we specialize in cutting-edge, non-surgical pain management solutions, serving Marietta and the greater Atlanta area. Our Marietta care team includes renowned pain management expert Dr. Paul L. Mefferd, DO and experienced physician assistant Stephanie Polsinelli Powers, MPAC. Together, they work with patients to create personalized treatment plans based on individual needs and conditions. Schedule your consultation today to explore whether spinal cord stimulation therapy is your next step.
Let’s explore how spinal cord stimulators compare to traditional chronic pain medications—and how to choose what works best for you.
How Spinal Cord Stimulators Work Compared to Pain Medications
Chronic pain medications work systemically, altering how your brain perceives pain. This includes:
- NSAIDs
- Antidepressants
- Muscle relaxants
- Opioids
While often helpful short term, they may not target the underlying cause of persistent nerve pain and carry risks like dependency or diminishing effectiveness.
Spinal cord stimulators, on the other hand, are small implantable devices that deliver low-voltage electrical impulses directly to specific areas along the spinal cord. These pain management devices disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain, and their settings can be customized based on the individual’s symptoms.
One widely-used form of this therapy is spinal cord stimulation (SCS), designed to manage chronic pain in the back and limbs effectively. This innovative treatment targets specific areas of the spinal cord to block pain signals, offering patients customized and lasting relief.
These devices are typically placed during a minimally invasive procedure with only local anesthesia required.
Effectiveness in Different Types of Chronic Pain
While medications are often used early in treatment, spinal cord stimulation tends to be more effective for localized or nerve-related pain conditions such as:
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Neuropathic pain
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Post-surgical pain
For many patients, spinal cord stimulators reduce or eliminate the need for medications altogether, leading to improved quality of life and fewer side effects.
Risks, Side Effects, and Long-Term Considerations
When weighing your pain management options, it’s important to consider both the potential risks and long-term maintenance associated with each approach, whether medication or spinal cord stimulation.
Medications
Pain medications can be effective in the short term, but often come with side effects such as:
- Drowsiness
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Constipation
- An increased tolerance over time
For patients on opioids, the risk of dependence and interaction with other substances, including alcohol or additional prescriptions, can raise safety concerns. Regular refills and pharmacy visits also add to the day-to-day burden of care.
Spinal Cord Stimulators
Spinal cord stimulators offer a minimally invasive, device-based alternative. The treatment typically begins with a trial period to determine effectiveness before a permanent device is implanted. Though rare, possible complications include:
- Infection at the incision site
- Lead migration
- Device malfunction
These risks are generally manageable with routine care and follow-up.
Once implanted, the device allows patients to adjust settings based on their comfort level and may significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for pain medications altogether.
How to Choose the Best Pain Management Option
When deciding between spinal cord stimulators and pain medications, your personal health history, lifestyle, and response to previous treatments matter most.
Consider spinal cord stimulation therapy if:
- Medications have failed to provide relief
- You experience side effects from long-term drug use
- You’re seeking a non-pharmaceutical solution with fewer systemic effects
- Your pain is localized and neuropathic in origin
A comprehensive evaluation by a pain management specialist can help determine the best treatment strategy. Many patients begin with conservative therapies and move toward spinal cord stimulator implants when other treatments no longer provide lasting results.
Discover Long-Term Pain Control That Fits Your Life
Living with chronic pain doesn’t have to be your forever. If medications aren’t working or the side effects outweigh the benefits, it may be time to consider advanced therapies like spinal cord stimulators. With the help of Dr. Paul L. Mefferd, DO and Stephanie Polsinelli Powers, MPAC, you can explore your treatment options with confidence and expert support.
To explore your options, schedule a consultation with The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists in Marietta, GA. Our team is here to help you move forward with confidence and personalized care.
