Spinal Cord Stimulator Implants in Louisiana
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) uses mild electrical impulses to relieve chronic pain in the back, arms, and legs. It is believed these pulses prevent pain signals from being received by the brain. LA Pain Doctor is one of the few practices in the area offering spinal cord stimulator implants to patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentWho Is a Candidate for a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
Spinal cord stimulation is designed for people with chronic nerve-related (neuropathic) pain who have not found relief with conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and injections. Good candidates often include patients with:
- Persistent back or leg pain after spine surgery (failed back surgery syndrome)
- Chronic sciatica or arm nerve pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Peripheral Neuropathy, including diabetic neuropathy
- Chronic pain from Spinal Stenosis or Degenerative Disc Disease
Trial First, Then Implant
Every patient completes a spinal cord stimulator trial before receiving a permanent implant. During the trial, temporary leads deliver stimulation for several days so you can see how much the therapy helps in your daily life. If the trial reduces your pain significantly, typically by 50 percent or more, you may move forward with the permanent system.
The Implant Procedure
The permanent implant is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Thin leads are placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord using X-ray guidance, and a small battery, similar to a pacemaker, is placed under the skin, usually in the lower back or buttock. Most patients go home the same day.
After a short healing period, the device is programmed to your needs. You control your therapy with a handheld remote, adjusting stimulation levels as your pain changes. Many modern systems offer settings that provide relief without tingling, and some are compatible with MRI scans.
Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation
Patients often experience reduced pain, improved sleep, more activity, and less reliance on pain medication. The therapy is reversible, and the system can be adjusted or removed if needed. For patients who need a different approach, we also offer intrathecal pump implants. Explore our neck pain treatment, lower back pain treatment, and pain medication management pages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant
How does a spinal cord stimulator work?
It sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord that interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain.
Do I need a trial before the permanent implant?
Yes. A trial lets you test the therapy for several days to make sure it significantly reduces your pain before a permanent device is implanted.
Is the implant procedure painful?
It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed with anesthesia. Most patients have mild soreness at the incision sites for a few weeks.
How long does the battery last?
Battery life depends on the device and settings. Rechargeable systems can last many years, and battery replacement is a simple outpatient procedure.
Can I have an MRI with a spinal cord stimulator?
Many newer systems are MRI-compatible under certain conditions. Your provider will discuss device options with you.
Will I still need pain medication?
Many patients are able to reduce their use of pain medication after a successful implant.
Where can I get a spinal cord stimulator?
LA Pain Doctor offers spinal cord stimulator implants to patients at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule an evaluation.
Discover Advanced Relief for Chronic Pain
Find out if spinal cord stimulation is right for you. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.