Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Trial

A Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) trial is a minimally invasive procedure used to determine if a spinal cord stimulator can help manage chronic pain in the back, legs, or other areas. The trial allows patients to experience potential pain relief before committing to permanent implantation.

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial?

A small wire (lead) is placed near the spinal cord using fluoroscopic guidance.
The lead is connected to an external pulse generator.
Mild electrical pulses are sent to the spinal cord to interrupt pain signals, reducing your perception of pain.
Patients can adjust settings to optimize comfort during the trial, which usually lasts 3–7 days.

Who is a Candidate?

SCS trials may be recommended for patients who:

Have chronic neuropathic or back and leg pain that has not responded to medications, injections, or other therapies
Are seeking a minimally invasive, reversible option for long-term pain management
Want to test the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation before permanent implantation

Your pain management specialist will assess your condition to determine if a SCS trial is suitable.

Recovery and What to Expect

The trial is typically conducted as an outpatient procedure, with patients typically going home the same day.
Mild soreness at the insertion site is normal.
Daily activities can generally be resumed, though heavy lifting or bending should be limited.
Pain relief during the trial helps guide the decision for permanent spinal cord stimulator placement.

What Happens if the Trial is Successful?

If the trial significantly reduces your pain, your specialist may recommend permanent implantation of the spinal cord stimulator.
The permanent device is implanted under the skin, with leads positioned near the spinal cord and a small generator placed under the skin, usually in the lower back or abdomen.
The permanent stimulator can be adjusted to optimize pain relief and improve daily function and quality of life.

Benefits of a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial

Minimally invasive and reversible
Provides an opportunity to experience pain relief before permanent implantation
Can improve function, quality of life, and daily activities
Helps your specialist tailor therapy to your specific pain

If you have chronic back or leg pain, schedule a consultation with our specialists to see if a spinal cord stimulator trial could help manage your symptoms.