SCS uses electrical impulses to trigger selected nerve fibers along the spinal cord. The stimulation of these nerve fibers inhibit s pain messages from being transmitted to the brain. SCS works in much the same way as vigorously rubbing a painful area decreases the pain in that area. Electrical stimulation can produce relief of chronic pain over large areas of the body. SCS may replace areas of chronic pain with a more pleasant sensation.
Most patients say that it feels like a vibration of a massaging effect.
More importantly, it masks the presence of chronic pain. This sensation is called paresthesia . Alth ough the sensation may vary with changes in posture, you should call your physician if the sensation comes or goes or your pain flares up. The goal of SCS is to decrease chronic pain and make it more manageable. SCS provides many patients with sufficient relief so that they are able to discontinue their pain medication.