SCS Therapy: The Complete Guide
Part 1: Device Types and How to Choose
About SCS Devices Available in Japan
Several medical device manufacturers currently provide SCS systems in Japan. All of them are approved by the national regulatory authority and covered by health insurance.
Our editorial policy: To avoid endorsing any particular manufacturer or product, this website does not name specific manufacturers or models. We recommend asking your doctor directly which device they use — and why.
How Devices Differ
The main differences between manufacturers and models come down to four points.
| Feature | What differs |
|---|---|
| Battery type | Rechargeable (longer battery life) vs. non-rechargeable (no charging routine) |
| Stimulation modes | All major devices offer both conventional and paresthesia-free programs (see Part 2) |
| Automatic adjustment | Adjustment based on body movement is available only on certain models |
| MRI compatibility | The conditions under which MRI scans are possible vary by model (see Part 4) |
About charging frequency:
The charging frequency of rechargeable devices varies significantly depending on the type and intensity of stimulation.
| Stimulation setting | Approximate charging frequency | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Paresthesia-free programs | Daily to every other day | Higher output consumes more power |
| Conventional programs (with paresthesia) | About once a week | Relatively lower output |
| Higher output settings | More frequently | Proportional to power consumption |
Charging is done by placing a dedicated charger on the skin over the device. Each session takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Stimulation Technology
All major devices offer programs both with and without paresthesia. While the technical approaches differ between manufacturers, there is no major difference in the types of stimulation available to patients. Only automatic adjustment based on body movement is limited to certain models.
Patient Controls
Every device comes with a dedicated remote control that lets you adjust the stimulation yourself, and some models also support smartphone apps.
Which Device Should You Choose?
The bottom line: all major devices are high quality, and the differences between them are not significant.
Important:
The choice of device matters less than your doctor's skill and experience. In practice, choosing the device your doctor knows best is the most sensible approach. Try asking your doctor, "Which device do you use, and why?" (see the question list at the end of this page).