Spinal Cord Stimulation Specialist
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Kenneth J Eaddy, MD
Board Certified in Interventional Pain Management & Internal Medicine located in Jacksonville, FL
If you regularly experience neck or back pain, a minimally invasive procedure like spinal cord stimulation may be able to provide lasting relief. At his self-titled practice, double board-certified interventional pain management physician Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, offers spinal cord stimulation with cutting-edge devices from manufacturers like Nevro, Abbott, and Boston Scientific. To make an appointment, call the office in Jacksonville, Florida, or click the online booking feature today.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Q & A
What is spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive procedure that treats chronic back or neck pain. It uses a device, called a spinal cord stimulator, to send electrical impulses throughout your body. The impulses prevent pain signals from reaching your brain, relieving discomfort and encouraging mobility.
What conditions can benefit from spinal cord stimulation?
Dr. Eaddy uses spinal cord stimulation to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Post-surgical pain
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neuropathy
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
You might also benefit from spinal cord stimulation if you experience pain after an amputation.
Am I a candidate for spinal cord stimulation?
A spinal cord stimulator is an implantable device. Before recommending surgery, Dr. Eaddy prescribes a trial period. During the trial period, you wear a temporary device to see if it works.
Dr. Eaddy attaches the temporary device during an outpatient procedure. To do that, he uses X-ray-guided imaging to place several electrodes into the epidural space around your spine. Where Dr. Eaddy places the electrodes depends on the location of your pain.
The electrodes connect to a device that clips to your belt. Throughout the day, the device emits electrical impulses that block pain signals from reaching your brain.
After wearing the test device for at least a week, you return to the office. If you experience a 50% reduction in symptoms (or more), Dr. Eaddy schedules a surgery to permanently implant the spinal cord stimulator device.
What does spinal cord stimulation surgery involve?
Spinal cord stimulation surgery is an outpatient procedure that takes about 90 minutes. During the operation, you lie face down on an exam table. Dr. Eaddy numbs your back with a local anesthetic and makes a small incision in your spine and another small incision just above your buttocks.
Then, Dr. Eaddy inserts and positions the electrodes and spinal cord stimulator, connects them, and stitches the incisions closed. Afterward, you’re moved to a recovery room for observation.
What is recovery like after spinal cord stimulation surgery?
After spinal cord stimulation surgery, it’s important to rest and drink plenty of fluids for the first two or three days. Take any medication as prescribed, and change your dressings regularly to prevent an infection.
Your incisions should heal within two to three weeks, but it may take longer. Avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks, and follow Dr. Eaddy’s instructions.
To see if you’re a candidate for spinal cord stimulation, make an appointment at the practice of Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
