Going into an SCS trial it is important to set realistic list of goals for what pain relief and functionality you would like to achieve through the SCS trial. These goals will help to indicate whether a trial has been successful. It will also help our doctors to personalize your treatment so that you receive an optimal level of stimulation. 

Going into an SCS trial it is important to set realistic list of goals for what pain relief and functionality you would like to achieve through the SCS trial. These goals will help to indicate whether a trial has been successful. It will also help our doctors to personalize your treatment so that you receive an optimal level of stimulation. 

During the SCS trial, patients experience the SCS trial implant temporarily, allowing them to evaluate its effectiveness before committing to a permanent implant.

The SCS trial procedure begins when thin, flexible electrodes are placed near the spine. These electrodes are connected to an external device during the spinal stimulator trial procedure, which delivers gentle electrical signals designed to interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain. Since the trial is temporary, no major surgical steps are involved, and the electrodes can be easily removed after the trial period ends.

A spinal cord stimulation trial typically lasts about five to seven days. This duration allows patients and our healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of the therapy in managing pain before deciding on a permanent implant. During an SCS trial, patients are encouraged to engage in their typical daily routines and physical activities to evaluate how well the therapy addresses their pain. 

By resuming such everyday tasks, patients gain a clearer understanding of how SCS impacts their mobility, energy levels, and overall comfort. Keeping a detailed record of these changes helps our healthcare team determine if spinal cord stimulation is a suitable long-term solution.

This trial period is a collaborative effort, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their needs and experiences.

The trial will last 3-7 days. This will be an opportunity for you to see if your pain relief goals are now possible through SCS therapy. We recommend no baths or showers during this time to protect from infection. If there are any concerns, questions, or issues, the patient can contact our office or a Medtronic representative.

A Few Things to Remember:

• Review and follow trial instructions about activities to avoid. 
• Try to participate is activities that you have been avoiding because of pain.
• Keep the device dry (the external system is not waterproof)
• Be patient, it make take a few days for the effects to be fully experienced.

Patients often experience a range of outcomes that help determine whether spinal cord stimulation is the right fit for managing their chronic pain. At The SCS Institute, our team takes a personalized and collaborative approach to assess the trial's success.

Success is measured by multiple criteria, including noticeable pain reduction, improved ability to perform daily activities, and enhanced overall well-being. Patients also play an active role by sharing their feedback on how the therapy has impacted their quality of life.

Once the trial concludes, our team carefully evaluates the data collected during the trial period. This assessment looks at how well the therapy alleviated pain during activities such as sitting, walking, or climbing stairs, and whether it allowed the patient to regain mobility and independence.

Equally important is the patient's subjective experience, such as how much relief they felt, how it affected their emotional health, and whether they felt satisfied with the results overall. By combining clinical data with the patient’s insights, our team at The SCS Institute ensures that every outcome is thoroughly considered. This thoughtful process guides the decision about moving forward with a permanent implant, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan designed to meet their unique needs and goals.