Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation in Manhattan, NY

Interrupting pain signals sent to the spinal cord reduces pain and offers an effective option in pain management. Like spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, or DRG stimulation, is used to block pain signals from the lower half of the body at the spinal cord. If you suffer from lower body pain, Ospina Medical offers dorsal root ganglion stimulation for pain management at our clinic in New York City.

Dorsal root ganglion stimulation is a form of neuromodulation therapy that uses electrical pulses to interrupt pain signals sent along the nerves to the spinal cord. It is like spinal cord stimulation, requiring a device to be implanted under the skin to place probes near the dorsal root ganglion to deliver electrical current. The difference between DRG and SCS stimulation is the exact placement and nerves affected. SCS is placed on the posterior portion of the spinal cord, while DRG stimulators are placed on the dorsal root ganglion. This group of spinal nerves is the pathway from the lower extremities for all sensory perception.

Dorsal root ganglion stimulation can offer the precision that is needed for controlling pain for nerve disorders like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Patients first use DRG stimulation for a week trial to determine if it is effective for their chronic pain. If it is successful, the DRG stimulation device is implanted with up to four probes that affect the dorsal root ganglion. With a remote, patients can emit electrical signals that interrupt pain signals from lower extremity pain. DRG stimulation requires less electricity for effectiveness, which can mean longer battery life. It is also more targeted than SCS for specific pain control.

If you suffer from CRPS or other types of lower extremity pain, dorsal root ganglion stimulation may be an option for pain management. Contact our team at Ospina Medical to learn more about neuromodulation options for opioid-free pain management options like DRG stimulation and SCS, available at our clinic in Midtown Manhattan.

How does DRG stimulation differ from traditional spinal cord stimulation?

While both DRG stimulation and spinal cord stimulation are forms of neuromodulation, DRG stimulation is more precise in targeting specific nerves. DRG stimulation directly affects the dorsal root ganglion, which is involved in pain transmission from specific body regions. This precision allows for better pain control in localized areas, such as the lower limbs or groin, which can be challenging to treat with spinal cord stimulation. The targeted nature of DRG stimulation can lead to more effective pain relief for patients with certain chronic pain conditions.

What types of pain can DRG stimulation effectively treat?

DRG stimulation is particularly effective for treating chronic, localized pain in areas such as the lower limbs, groin, or pelvis. It has shown success in managing pain from conditions like CRPS, peripheral nerve damage, and post-surgical neuropathic pain. Because of its precision in targeting specific nerves, it is often recommended for patients whose pain is localized to a specific area and has not responded to other forms of therapy.

Is DRG stimulation reversible?

Yes, DRG stimulation is reversible. If the patient experiences unsatisfactory results or side effects, the device can be turned off or removed without causing permanent changes to the nervous system. This makes DRG stimulation a flexible treatment option for managing chronic pain, as the therapy can be adjusted or discontinued based on the patient's needs and response.