Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation Therapy
Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation is an innovative treatment option designed to help manage chronic pain. This minimally invasive procedure delivers targeted electrical stimulation to the dorsal root ganglia, which are clusters of nerve cells located along the spine responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.
By modulating these pain signals before they reach the brain, DRG stimulation can significantly reduce chronic pain. The treatment involves a small device made up of electrodes and an implantable pulse generator, similar to other types of neuromodulation therapies. This technique offers a highly focused approach, making it especially effective for localized pain that may not respond well to other treatments.
At Cellara Pain Institute, we use advanced neuromodulation technologies to help patients achieve long-lasting relief and regain control of their lives.
Did You Know?
Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation, Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation can effectively target areas that are typically harder to reach. This is possible because the dorsal root ganglia are located within the epidural space of the spine, allowing for precise and focused stimulation to specific regions of the body.
At Cellara Pain Institute, we offer DRG therapy as part of our advanced solutions for managing complex, chronic pain conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG)?
DRG therapy may be a suitable option if you are experiencing chronic pain in the lower body—such as the groin, hip, knee, or foot—that has not improved with other treatments. It has also shown significant effectiveness for individuals living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
To find out if Dorsal Root Ganglion stimulation is the right solution for your condition, schedule a consultation with the pain specialists at Cellara Pain Institute today.
What can I expect when receiving Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG)?
Before the permanent placement of a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulator, you will first undergo a trial period to evaluate how well the therapy manages your pain. During this phase, a small wire is positioned near the targeted DRG and connected to an external generator. This external device allows for adjustments in the strength and frequency of electrical signals. The trial typically lasts about one week. If you experience a reduction in pain of 50 percent or more, the treatment is considered effective, and you may proceed with permanent implantation.
The permanent DRG stimulator is implanted during a minimally invasive outpatient procedure using local anesthesia and light sedation. A small incision is made in the upper buttock or lower back to place the device beneath the skin. The stimulator is then connected to thin wires threaded through the body to the epidural space where the DRG is located. Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, open surgery is not required — offering a safer and faster recovery process for most patients.
If adjustments are needed after implantation, the stimulator can be reprogrammed or turned off for optimal comfort.
At Cellara Pain Institute, our team ensures every step of the DRG therapy process is handled with precision and care, so you can regain control over your life.
What can I expect after treatment?
After your dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulator is implanted, you’ll wake up in a recovery room where our care team will monitor you until the anesthesia wears off. Most patients are able to go home within one to two hours after the procedure.
Your provider at Cellara Pain Institute will give you detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. In general, you should plan to avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least two weeks. Stitches may be present at the incision site and are typically removed about three days after surgery.
Most incisions heal within two to four weeks, but your recovery timeline may vary depending on your overall health and activity level. Following your doctor’s guidance closely will help ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications.