Dr. Jordan Sudberg’s Guide to Back Stimulator Implants: Restoring Hope for Chronic Pain Sufferers
Chronic back pain can be exhausting—physically, emotionally, and mentally. For millions of people, traditional treatments like medications, physical therapy, or even surgery don’t bring lasting relief. Fortunately, medical technology has opened the door to new, life-changing solutions. One of the most promising advancements is the back stimulator implant, also known as a spinal cord stimulator (SCS).
According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a leading pain management specialist, back stimulator implants have “revolutionized the way we treat persistent, unmanageable pain, offering patients a renewed sense of control and freedom.”
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about back-stimulator implants, with expert insight from Dr. Sudberg, who has helped countless patients reclaim their lives from debilitating pain.
What Is a Back Stimulator Implant?
A back stimulator implant, or spinal cord stimulator (SCS), is a small medical device implanted near the spine. It delivers electrical pulses that interfere with the pain signals being sent to your brain.
Instead of pain, patients may feel a mild tingling sensation known as paresthesia—or in some cases, no sensation at all, depending on the type of device.
“It doesn’t cure the condition causing your pain,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “But it significantly reduces the perception of pain, often enough to restore a functional, active life.”
How Does It Work?
Think of your nervous system as a highway. Pain signals travel from injured or damaged nerves up the spine to the brain. A back stimulator implant modifies or blocks these signals before they reach your brain.
The system typically includes:
- A pulse generator (like a pacemaker)
- Thin electrodes or leads placed near the spinal cord
- A remote control so patients can adjust settings
The patient can fine-tune the intensity and coverage of stimulation based on their needs, with guidance from their pain management team.
Who Is a Candidate for a Back Stimulator?
Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes that spinal cord stimulators aren’t for everyone—but for the right patient, they can be transformational.
Ideal candidates often include those with:
- Chronic back pain (especially post-surgical or “failed back surgery syndrome”)
- Nerve-related pain (sciatica, radiculopathy)
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Patients who have not found relief from conventional treatments
“Before we consider implantation, we look at each patient’s full medical history, previous treatments, imaging results, and pain patterns,” says Dr. Sudberg.
Most patients undergo a trial period before full implantation to ensure the device works for their specific condition.
The Trial Period: A Key Step
One of the most unique advantages of back stimulator therapy is the trial phase, which typically lasts 5–7 days.
Here’s how it works:
- Leads are temporarily placed in the epidural space under local anesthesia.
- The external pulse generator is worn on a belt.
- Patients test the device in daily life and track pain reduction.
“If a patient reports at least 50% improvement in their pain during the trial, that’s a green light to move forward with the permanent implant,” Dr. Sudberg says.
The trial gives both the physician and patient confidence in the outcome before committing to a full procedure.
The Implant Procedure: What to Expect
The permanent implantation of a back stimulator is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
Steps include:
- Sedation or general anesthesia
- Insertion of the pulse generator (typically in the lower back or buttocks)
- Placement of leads in the spinal canal
- Device programming and testing
Most patients go home the same day and resume normal (light) activities within a few days.
Recovery time is typically short, with low complication risks, especially when performed by an experienced specialist like Dr. Jordan Sudberg.
Types of Spinal Cord Stimulators
Advancements in SCS technology have given patients more personalized options:
- Traditional (Tonic) Stimulation – Creates a tingling sensation to mask pain.
- Burst Stimulation – Mimics natural nerve firing and often works without tingling.
- High-Frequency Stimulation – Offers deeper pain relief with no sensation at all.
- Closed-Loop Systems – Monitors and adjusts stimulation in real-time based on body movement and feedback.
“Today’s devices are smarter, smaller, and more effective than ever,” Dr. Sudberg says. “Choosing the right one depends on the patient’s goals and responsiveness.”
Benefits of a Back Stimulator Implant
Patients who qualify for a spinal cord stimulator often report significant benefits:
- Pain reduction of 50% or more
- Decreased reliance on opioids or other medications
- Improved sleep, mood, and quality of life
- Greater ability to participate in work and daily activities
- Reversible treatment—unlike surgery, the implant can be removed if needed
“We see patients go from being bedridden to biking again,” shares Dr. Sudberg. “It’s truly remarkable.”
Risks and Considerations
As with any medical procedure, there are risks to be aware of:
- Infection at the implant site
- Lead migration or malfunction
- Device failure or programming issues
- Rare complications like nerve damage or spinal fluid leakage
However, with proper screening and follow-up care, these risks are minimal, especially under the supervision of experienced practitioners.
“Success lies in proper patient selection, surgical technique, and ongoing support,” Dr. Sudberg emphasizes.
Living With a Back Stimulator: Realistic Expectations
After implantation, patients work closely with their provider to:
- Optimize device settings
- Monitor improvements
- Adjust lifestyle as needed
The device doesn’t fix structural problems in the spine—but it can reduce pain enough to make life manageable again.
Patients may need:
- Battery replacements (every 5–10 years)
- Device reprogramming based on lifestyle changes
- Complementary therapies like physical rehab
“It’s not a cure, but it’s a powerful tool,” says Dr. Sudberg. “For many, it’s the difference between suffering and living again.”
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider a Back Stimulator?
If you’ve been living with chronic back or nerve pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, a spinal cord stimulator may be worth exploring. And with expert care from a specialist like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, the process can be safe, informed, and personalized.
“We don’t take shortcuts with pain,” Dr. Sudberg concludes. “We partner with patients, empower them with choices, and walk beside them through every stage of recovery.”
