Learning that you’re a candidate for a spinal cord stimulator trial can bring both hope and plenty of questions. Many patients wonder what the procedure involves, whether it will hurt, how long the trial lasts, and what happens if it works.
A spinal cord stimulator trial is designed to answer one important question before a permanent device is implanted: Will this treatment provide meaningful relief from your chronic pain?
At Nexus Pain Center, every spinal cord stimulation treatment begins with a temporary trial so you and your physician can determine whether this advanced therapy is right for you.
What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial?
A spinal cord stimulator trial is a temporary evaluation period that allows patients to experience spinal cord stimulation before deciding on permanent implantation.
During the trial, thin wires called leads are placed near the spinal cord and connected to an external pulse generator worn outside the body. The device sends gentle electrical signals that help interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain.
The trial typically lasts several days, allowing you to evaluate how well the treatment improves your daily activities and reduces pain.
Why Is a Trial Necessary?
Unlike many medical procedures, spinal cord stimulation offers patients the opportunity to “test drive” the therapy before committing to permanent implantation.
The trial helps determine whether spinal cord stimulation provides meaningful pain relief while allowing your physician to fine-tune the device settings based on your individual symptoms.
If the trial is successful, your physician may recommend moving forward with permanent implantation.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Your physician may recommend a spinal cord stimulator trial if you’ve experienced chronic pain that has not responded to conservative treatments.
Patients commonly considered include those living with:
- Chronic low back pain
- Sciatica
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
You can also learn more about the complete treatment by visiting our Spinal Cord Stimulation service page.
Preparing for Your Trial
Before your procedure, your physician will review your medical history, medications, and imaging studies. You will receive instructions regarding eating, drinking, medications, and transportation on the day of your procedure.
Be sure to follow all instructions provided by your care team to help ensure a safe and successful trial.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The spinal cord stimulator trial is performed as an outpatient procedure.
After the treatment area is cleaned and prepared, your physician carefully places temporary leads near the spinal cord using imaging guidance. The leads are connected to an external pulse generator worn on your body during the trial period.
Once the device is programmed, you’ll begin evaluating your pain relief during normal daily activities.
Does the Trial Hurt?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure. It’s common to have some soreness near the lead insertion site for a short period afterward.
Your physician will discuss what to expect before your procedure and provide instructions for managing any temporary discomfort.
What Activities Should You Avoid?
During the trial, it’s important to protect the temporary leads.
Your physician may recommend avoiding:
- Heavy lifting
- Excessive bending or twisting
- Strenuous exercise
- Swimming or soaking in water
- Activities that could dislodge the leads
Following these guidelines helps ensure accurate trial results.
How Do You Know if the Trial Is Successful?
Success isn’t measured by pain scores alone.
Your physician will discuss improvements in:
- Pain relief
- Walking and mobility
- Daily activities
- Sleep quality
- Overall function
- Quality of life
The goal is meaningful improvement that helps you return to activities that chronic pain has limited.
What Happens After the Trial?
Once the trial is complete, the temporary leads are removed during a follow-up appointment.
If the trial has provided significant relief, your physician may recommend scheduling a permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation.
If the trial does not provide enough benefit, your care team will discuss other treatment options that may better fit your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive during the trial?
Your physician will provide individualized instructions regarding driving based on your procedure and recovery.
Can I shower?
You’ll receive instructions on keeping the dressing and external equipment dry throughout the trial period.
How long does the trial last?
Most spinal cord stimulator trials last several days, although your physician will determine the appropriate length based on your individual treatment plan.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
Your physician will discuss anesthesia or sedation options before your procedure.
What if the trial doesn’t work?
The purpose of the trial is to determine whether spinal cord stimulation is the right treatment for you. If the trial doesn’t provide meaningful improvement, your physician will discuss other interventional pain management options.
Take the Next Step Toward Chronic Pain Relief
If chronic pain continues to interfere with your daily life, a spinal cord stimulator trial may help determine whether spinal cord stimulation is right for you.
Learn more about spinal cord stimulation or schedule a consultation with Nexus Pain Center to discuss your treatment options.