What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

An option for chronic pain relief, the spinal cord stimulator is an implanted neurostimulation device that inhibits the sensation of pain. If you’ve been unable to get relief from chronic back pain after trying different treatment methods, don’t give up. Dr. Ilana Etelzon is an expert in the field of up-to-date pain relief options, including the spinal cord stimulator.

For expert treatment of pain syndromes such as lower back pain, neck pain, pinched nerves, sciatica and musculoskeletal disorders in New York City, call Dr. Etelzon. She’s highly trained and experienced in the field of pain management and uses a non-operative approach to pain relief that includes minimally invasive procedures and a variety of regenerative therapies.

Am I a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Effective pain relief depends on expert evaluation of the cause of your pain. Your NYC doctor determines the best treatment for your pain based on a thorough examination and imaging studies. Conditions that may make you a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation include:

Back pain or neck pain that persists after surgery, which is known as failed back surgery syndrome
Complex regional pain
Nerve-related pain such as peripheral or diabetic neuropathy
Spinal cord injury
Pain after an amputation

Your doctor may recommend spinal cord stimulation if you’ve tried conservative treatment options for at least six months without relief and surgery isn’t a good option for you.

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What Should I Expect if I Get a Spinal Cord Stimulation Device?

A stimulator sends low levels of electricity to the spinal cord to relieve the sensation of pain. If you’re considered a good candidate, you can expect:

Trial run. A trial run is usually recommended that involves inserting thin wires attached to electrodes so that electrical pulses can be sent to contacts near the spinal cord. The trial lasts around five to seven days and you’ll be asked to track your level of pain relief. If there’s at least a 50 percent reduction in pain, you may qualify to have the permanent stimulator implanted.
Spinal cord stimulator procedure. Local anesthesia is used while the doctor implants permanent leads followed by general anesthesia to implant a generator in the abdominal or buttocks area. The procedure usually takes one to two hours. In most cases, patients are able to go home the same day.

Incisions may be painful for a few days and heal completely within two to four weeks. Your surgeon lets you know if there are limits to your activities and how soon you’ll be able to drive or return to work.

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage due to untreated or long-term diabetes. It’s estimated that nearly one-half of people with diabetes suffer from peripheral neuropathy, which occurs when nerve damage affects your feet and your legs and sometimes, your arms and hands.

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common forms of diabetic side effects. Symptoms that you may experience include:

Infections, ulcers and bone and joint damage in your feet
Burning and tingling sensations in your feet or hands
Sharp cramps in your legs
Sensitivity to any touch, even lightweight bedsheets
Foot and hand numbness

Spinal cord stimulation is one of the most effective means of treating pain associated with diabetic and peripheral neuropathy. And Dr. Etelzon brings extensive experience with this procedure to bear for you if that’s what has been determined to be the best option.

In New York City, Dr. Ilana Etelzon is committed to providing patients with the best pain relief treatment options. Contact her team to schedule an appointment today.

Patient Testimonials

Patient Doctor Relationships Based on Trust

Dr. Etelzon always makes sure you are comfortable and leave her office with less pain you came in. She gets to the root of the problem. She's friendly. Clean office environment. No long waits, efficient visit. Highly satisfied with my treatment plan.
Jacqueline Rodriguez Patient
Doctor Etelzon is very knowledgeable and really cares about her patients. She will take her time to discuss patients problem, answer questions and use her expertise to help. Dr. Etelzon maintains a friendly , clean , and efficient office environment.
Narik Fuzailov Patient
Helped me with my pain! Great bedside manner. Highly recommend this doctor.
Anonymous Patient
Dr.Etelzon is very knowledgeable and caring and has hands of hold! She was so thorough in her examination and really sees and hears the patient and determines a customized treatment. Thank you, Dr.Etelzon!
Anonymous Patient
Dr. Ilana Etelzon thank you for your help, you have golden hands. Very attentive and knowledgeable doctor. The office staff is friendly and kind, you girls are beautiful.
Valeriy Shek Patient (Google Review)
Dear Doctor Etelzon, Thank you again. I am starting to feel more like myself again...I couldn't say the problem is totally gone, but a big weight has been lifted...Today...I decided to go and do my nails which I did not do for a long time after the incident. I also asked my daughter if we could go to the park. These are things I normally enjoy but forgot about them for a few months now.
Anonymous Patient