Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

Summary

• SCS is one treatment option that may be considered when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief for chronic low back pain
• Complications are a real possibility — infection, lead migration, hardware problems, and the potential need for reoperation
• Clinical trials have reported pain improvement in many patients, but results vary between individuals, and some patients do not respond
• Even when effective, SCS reduces pain rather than curing it
• A trial stimulation period allows you to verify the effect before committing to permanent implantation — but the trial itself carries risks
• Insurance coverage varies by country and insurer — check with your provider
• Reversible — the device can be removed if needed, though this requires a medical procedure
• The decision to pursue SCS should be made in close consultation with your doctor, after considering all available treatment options