Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulator

A Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulator is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment that uses targeted electrical stimulation to manage chronic nerve pain. The dorsal root ganglion is a cluster of nerve cells near the spinal cord that acts as a critical hub for sending pain signals to the brain.

By delivering precise electrical impulses directly to the DRG, the stimulator blocks or modifies pain signals, providing significant and highly targeted pain relief.

Your provider may recommend a DRG stimulator if you suffer from:

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) (especially in the foot, ankle, knee, or groin)
• Focal nerve pain after surgery or injury
• Chronic post-surgical pain (hernia repair, joint replacement, amputations)
• Pelvic or groin pain
• Pain not responding to medications, physical therapy, or injections

DRG stimulation is ideal for localized pain conditions that have not responded to traditional spinal cord stimulation or other treatments.

The DRG stimulator process has two main stages:

Trial Phase:

• A temporary lead (small wire) is placed near the dorsal root ganglion at the specific spinal level related to your pain.
• The lead is connected to an external trial stimulator.
• You will wear this device for about 5–7 days to test how well it controls your pain.

Implant Phase (if the trial is successful):

• A permanent, small device is implanted under the skin in the lower back or buttock.
• The permanent stimulator delivers gentle, adjustable electrical impulses to the DRG continuously.
• You will have a handheld remote to adjust your stimulation settings based on your needs.

• After the trial, you and your provider will evaluate how much your pain improved. A significant reduction in pain suggests you are a good candidate for permanent implantation.
• After permanent implantation, mild soreness at the incision sites is normal and should resolve in a few days.
• You should limit bending, twisting, lifting heavy objects, and strenuous activities for several weeks after implantation to allow proper healing.
• The stimulator settings can be adjusted easily to optimize comfort and effectiveness.
• Most patients experience long-term pain relief, improved function, and reduced reliance on medications.

DRG stimulation is generally safe. However, potential, rare risks include:

• Infection at the surgical site
• Lead migration (movement of the electrode)
• Pain or discomfort around the implant site
• Device malfunction (rare and usually correctable)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use advanced techniques and careful follow-up to minimize risks and ensure your success.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management specialists with expertise in neuromodulation
• Advanced image-guided placement techniques
• Personalized trial and permanent device programming
• Ongoing follow-up care to ensure optimal pain relief

Our goal is to help you regain your life, movement, and comfort with the latest proven technologies.