Living with chronic nerve pain can be debilitating—especially when conventional treatments fail to bring relief. Whether you’re suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), post-surgical nerve pain, or chronic pain in the lower limbs, a revolutionary treatment called Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation may offer new hope.
At Kansas Pain Management, we specialize in the latest neuromodulation therapies, including DRG stimulation, which is designed to target specific pain sites more precisely than traditional spinal cord stimulation (SCS). In this blog, we’ll walk you through what DRG stimulation is, how it works, and who it can help.
What Is DRG Stimulation?
Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation is an advanced form of neuromodulation therapy that targets the dorsal root ganglion—a cluster of sensory nerve cell bodies located just outside the spinal cord. These nerve clusters play a critical role in how the body interprets pain from specific areas, especially in the lower body.
Instead of delivering broad stimulation across the spinal cord (as with traditional SCS), DRG stimulation delivers targeted electrical impulses directly to the nerves that transmit pain signals from the problem area. This results in more precise, effective, and focused pain relief.
Conditions Treated with DRG Stimulation
DRG stimulation is particularly effective for patients with focal, difficult-to-treat neuropathic pain, including:
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS I and II)
- Post-surgical groin pain (e.g., after hernia repair or C-section)
- Pelvic or perineal pain
- Knee pain after total knee replacement
- Foot and ankle pain
- Phantom limb pain after amputation
- Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles)
How Does DRG Stimulation Work?
The system includes three main components:
- Leads: Thin wires placed near the dorsal root ganglion at specific spinal levels.
- Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG): A small battery-powered device implanted under the skin.
- Remote Control: Allows the patient to adjust stimulation settings within prescribed limits.
Once activated, the IPG sends mild electrical pulses to the DRG, interfering with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The procedure is minimally invasive, and results can often be tested with a trial period before permanent implantation.
Benefits of DRG Stimulation
- Targeted Pain Relief: Focuses on specific regions without affecting other areas.
- No Tingling Sensation (Paresthesia-Free): Unlike traditional SCS, DRG often doesn’t produce the buzzing sensation.
- Improved Mobility and Function: Patients often report greater ability to walk, stand, or sleep without pain.
- Reduced Need for Opioids or Medications
- High Success Rate in Clinical Trials: Multiple studies show >70% pain relief for eligible patients.
Is DRG Stimulation Right for You?
You may be a good candidate for DRG stimulation if:
- You’ve tried medications, nerve blocks, or traditional spinal cord stimulation with limited success.
- Your pain is localized to a specific body region.
- You have been diagnosed with CRPS or neuropathic pain not explained by ongoing mechanical problems.
- You’re in overall good health and can undergo a minor outpatient procedure.
A trial phase is typically the first step. If the temporary stimulation leads to significant pain relief (usually >50%), a permanent device may be implanted.
Why Choose Kansas Pain Management?
At Kansas Pain Management, we are among the few interventional pain practices in the region offering advanced DRG stimulation. Our board-certified specialists are trained in the latest techniques and work closely with patients to design a personalized treatment plan.
We offer:
- In-depth diagnostic evaluations
- DRG stimulation trial and implantation
- Ongoing follow-up, device programming, and support
- Coordination with physical therapy and mental health providers when needed
Take the First Step Toward Long-Lasting Relief
Don’t let chronic nerve pain control your life. DRG stimulation might be the breakthrough you’ve been searching for. Schedule a consultation with our team at Kansas Pain Management to find out if you’re a candidate.
👉 Call us today or book your appointment online. https://kansaspainmanagement.com/book-an-appointment/
