What is spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a well-established treatment for chronic pain that hasn't responded to other approaches. A small device, placed under the skin, sends gentle electrical pulses to the spinal cord that modify pain signals before they reach the brain. It's a type of neuromodulation — and because it can be trialed first and turned off or removed, it's one of the more flexible advanced pain therapies available.
At Argires Specialty Group, our neuromodulation program is led by Dr. Steven Falowski, who is nationally recognized in spinal cord stimulation, alongside our pain management team.
Who may benefit
SCS is generally considered when chronic, nerve-related pain persists despite conservative treatment. It may help people with:
- Persistent leg or arm pain from nerve irritation.
- Ongoing pain after spine surgery.
- Certain neuropathies and other chronic nerve pain conditions.
- Complex regional pain and related syndromes.
We also offer dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation for focused, hard-to-treat pain in specific areas.
The trial-before-implant approach
One of the advantages of SCS is that you can try it before committing. In a short trial, temporary leads are placed so you can experience the therapy during everyday activities. If the trial provides meaningful relief, a permanent system can be implanted in a minimally invasive procedure. This step helps ensure the therapy is right for you before moving forward.
Why choose our team
Neuromodulation is a specialized field, and experience matters. Dr. Falowski's national leadership in spinal cord stimulation means Lancaster-area patients can access advanced neuromodulation care close to home, coordinated with our full spine and pain team.
Request an appointment or call (717) 358-0800 to find out whether spinal cord stimulation is right for you.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a treatment for chronic pain that uses a small implanted device to deliver mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, changing the pain signals before they reach the brain. It is a form of neuromodulation and is typically considered when other treatments have not provided enough relief.
Who is a candidate for spinal cord stimulation?
SCS may help people with chronic nerve-related pain — such as persistent leg or arm pain, pain after spine surgery, or certain neuropathies — that has not responded to conservative care. Candidacy is determined after an evaluation, and most patients complete a temporary trial first.
Do I try spinal cord stimulation before the implant?
Yes. Most patients undergo a short trial with temporary leads to see how much relief they get before committing to a permanent implant. This trial-before-implant approach helps ensure the therapy is right for you.
Who performs spinal cord stimulation here?
Our neuromodulation care is led by Dr. Steven Falowski, who is nationally recognized in spinal cord stimulation, along with our pain management team. Call (717) 358-0800 to learn whether SCS is right for you in Lancaster, PA.
Chronic pain that won't respond to other treatments?
Spinal cord stimulation may offer relief when other options haven't. Ask our team whether a trial is right for you.
Request an Appointment Call (717) 358-0800