Living with nerve pain can be really hard—especially when regular treatments don’t help. If you’re dealing with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) pain after surgery or pain in your legs a treatment called Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation could offer a new way to feel better.
At Kansas Pain Management we focus on the ways to treat pain including DRG stimulation. This treatment is made to target pain in areas better than older methods. In this blog we’ll explain what DRG stimulation is, how it functions and who it can help.
What Is DRG Stimulation?
Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation is a type of neuromodulation therapy. It targets the DRG, which’s a group of nerve cells outside the spinal cord. These nerves are important in how the body feels pain in the lower parts of the body.
Unlike methods that send signals to the whole spinal cord DRG stimulation sends electrical pulses directly to the nerves that send pain signals. This gives focused and better 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.
