Spinal cord stimulator for cervical spine

I had a cervical spinal cord stimulator implanted 8 years ago. It works very well and there are no cons for me. That being said, most insurance plans will cover lumbar stimulators for failed back surgery syndrome but not cervical stimulators. My coverage was initially declined but my doctor made a successful appeal and my surgery was covered. I believe there is less data available on the use of spinal cord stimulation for cervical spine issues and the success rate (in terms of pain relief) is lower. Your best option might be to have a trial and see if you get any pain relief before considering the permanent implant.

Thank you. It's encouraging that it has worked for you

I had the trial cervical spine stimulator implant put in last Monday 8/18/2025 and it did not work to relieve the nerve pain and numbness in my left hand. I had it taken out on Friday 8/22/2025. My pain dr asked it I would keep it in over the weekend but I declined, it wasn't working for me and I was ready to take it out. Can I ask the reason you are getting the cervical spine stimulator implant?

Hi my name is Irene and I’ve had SCS placed in the cervical spine for the past 11 years. I can’t say I haven’t had problems with it but it does work for me but not by itself. I do take 3 medications for pain. (Cymbalta, gabapentin, and methadone). Everything together allows for quality of life.

I have multi-level stenosis, cervical myelopathy, and multi-level spondylosis. Surgical option is a total fusion, including a thoracic fusion of C1-C2. I have been trying to avoid surgery, but am running out of options

Thank yiou