Chronic nerve pain and neuropathy can make even simple tasks unbearable. At MAPS Centers for Pain Control in Chicago, advanced neuromodulation therapies—including Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS), Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation, and Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)—offer life-changing relief without invasive surgery.
This page explains how neuromodulation works, who qualifies, how it compares to other treatments, and what results you can expect.

Explore Related Guides:

What Is Neuromodulation for Neuropathy? A Complete Patient Guide
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Neuromodulation Therapy?
Neuromodulation vs. Other Pain Treatments: Choosing the Best Option for Your Nerve Pain
How Neuromodulation Targets Neuropathy Pain: What Patients Need to Know
How Neuromodulation Eases Nerve Pain
5 Quick Signs You Might Benefit from Neuromodulation
Neuromodulation: Advanced Pain Relief at MAPS Centers for Pain Control

Understanding Chronic Neuropathy and Nerve Pain

Neuropathy refers to nerve damage that disrupts the way signals travel between your body and brain. This can cause pain, numbness, burning, or tingling sensations that don’t respond well to traditional pain treatments.

Expert Insight:

“When we see patients with neuropathic pain that hasn’t responded to traditional approaches—medications, injections, or even prior surgeries—neuromodulation often becomes a turning point,” explains Dr. Timothy R. Lubenow, MD, internationally recognized pain specialist at MAPS Centers for Pain Control. “It gives us a way to treat pain at the source, directly within the nervous system, without destroying or removing tissue.”

Common Causes of Neuropathy

Diabetes (the most frequent cause in the U.S.)
Spinal disorders like herniated discs or spinal stenosis
Post-surgical nerve injury
Trauma or infection
Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
Autoimmune or metabolic conditions

How Neuropathy Feels

Symptoms often include:

Burning or electric-like pain
Pins-and-needles sensation in hands or feet
Muscle weakness or balance issues
Sensitivity to touch or temperature

For many patients, these symptoms persist for years—even after medications, injections, or surgery. That’s where neuromodulation steps in.

What Is Neuromodulation?

Neuromodulation is a rapidly advancing field in modern pain medicine that focuses on modifying nerve activity to reduce pain and restore normal function. Rather than masking pain with medication, neuromodulation targets the communication system of the body itself—the nervous system—to interrupt or retrain the signals that cause chronic discomfort.
In simple terms, neuromodulation uses electrical impulses or mild stimulation to influence how nerves send messages to the brain. When functioning correctly, the nervous system sends pain signals only when something is wrong (like an injury). But in chronic pain conditions, these pain circuits become “stuck on,” firing constantly even when no damage is present. Neuromodulation helps reset these overactive nerve pathways, bringing the system back into balance.

A Brief Look at Its Medical Evolution

Neuromodulation isn’t new—it’s the result of decades of innovation in neuroscience and biomedical engineering. The first spinal cord stimulation (SCS) device was implanted in 1967, and the therapy has evolved dramatically since then.
Today’s systems are miniaturized, wireless, and programmable, with precision that allows physicians to target specific nerves down to the millimeter. Advances such as high-frequency stimulation and burst technology now make it possible to relieve pain without the tingling sensation (paresthesia) that older systems produced.

Clinical Leadership at MAPS

Dr. Lubenow was among the first physicians in the United States to perform Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation when it was commercialized in 2016, following advanced training in Oxford, England.
“Being part of that early group allowed us to bring this therapy to American patients years before it became widely available,” says Dr. Lubenow. “It completely changed how we approach localized neuropathic pain—especially in conditions like CRPS or post-surgical nerve pain.”

At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, neuromodulation represents the cutting edge of this evolution. Our physicians—leaders in pain management including Dr. Lubenow—have helped pioneer new applications of these therapies for complex neuropathic pain.

Key Benefits of Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation offers a unique combination of safety, precision, and long-term effectiveness that sets it apart from other pain treatments. Unlike surgery or nerve-destroying procedures, these therapies work with your body’s nervous system—retraining it instead of altering it permanently.

Non-Destructive and Reversible
Neuromodulation does not damage nerves or tissues. Devices can be turned off, adjusted, or completely removed if needed—making it a flexible and low-risk option for managing chronic pain.
Reduces Dependence on Pain Medications
Many patients are able to significantly reduce—or even eliminate—their reliance on opioids and other long-term pain medications after neuromodulation. This decreases the risk of side effects, tolerance, and dependency while improving overall quality of life.
Effective for Chronic, Treatment-Resistant Pain
Neuromodulation is especially effective for patients who have tried multiple treatments without lasting relief. It’s been clinically proven to help those with neuropathy, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), failed back surgery syndrome, and other difficult-to-treat nerve conditions.

Dr. Lubenow adds:
“Many of our patients who have lived with constant burning or stabbing pain for years describe their results after neuromodulation as ‘life-changing.’ Some return to work, travel again, and finally sleep through the night for the first time in years. The difference can be dramatic.”

Customizable to Each Patient’s Nerve Pattern
Every patient’s pain is unique—and so is their neuromodulation program. Device settings can be precisely tailored to your body’s pain map, then adjusted over time as your condition improves or your pain changes.
Improves Daily Function and Emotional Well-Being
Patients often experience better sleep, greater mobility, and improved mood once chronic pain is controlled. Many return to normal routines—walking, working, or exercising—within weeks of treatment.
Promotes Long-Term Nervous System Balance
Over time, neuromodulation can help “reset” pain pathways in the spinal cord and brain, leading to more stable and sustained pain relief even as the nervous system adapts.

At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, neuromodulation has become one of the most effective and versatile solutions for long-term pain relief.

Types of Neuromodulation Offered at MAPS

Therapy Type	Target Area	Best For	Distinct Advantage
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)	Spinal cord	Widespread nerve pain in arms, legs, or trunk	Broad coverage and adjustable programs
Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation	Nerve roots exiting the spinal cord	Localized pain (foot, knee, groin, CRPS)	Precision targeting for small pain regions
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)	Peripheral nerves in limbs or head	Shoulder, knee, or occipital pain	Tiny implant, highly focused relief

From Dr. Lubenow:

“While spinal cord stimulation remains a powerful tool for widespread pain, DRG stimulation gives us unmatched precision. We can now target pain in small, well-defined areas—like the knee, groin, or foot—without affecting the rest of the body.”

Each therapy can be customized to the individual’s condition, pain distribution, and goals for function and activity.

Talk to your doctor to determine whether Spinal Cord, DRG, or Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is best for your specific condition.

How Neuromodulation Works

Neuromodulation works through four core mechanisms:

Signal Interruption – Gentle electrical pulses “distract” the brain from incoming pain messages.
Nerve Reconditioning – Over time, altered nerve firing patterns can retrain pain pathways.
Reduced Inflammation – Studies show electrical modulation decreases pro-inflammatory markers at pain sites.
Neurochemical Balance – Stimulators may normalize neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin involved in pain perception.

Learn more: How Neuromodulation Targets Neuropathy Pain: What Patients Need to Know

What Neuromodulation Devices Look Like

A neuromodulation system is composed of three main parts:

Leads or Electrodes: Thin, flexible wires placed near the spinal cord or peripheral nerves.
Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG): A small device—similar to a cardiac pacemaker—implanted under the skin, often in the lower back or abdomen.
External Controller: A handheld or smartphone-based device that allows patients to adjust their settings and manage pain relief levels.

These systems are custom-programmed for each patient, ensuring pain relief is focused precisely where it’s needed. Some models are rechargeable wirelessly, while others have non-rechargeable batteries that last 7–10 years.

The MAPS Process: From Consultation to Long-Term Relief

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

Your MAPS physician reviews your pain history, prior treatments, and imaging. They determine whether you’re a candidate for neuromodulation based on pain pattern, duration, and medical history.

2. One-Week Trial

A small external stimulator is placed temporarily. If you experience at least 50% relief, you qualify for permanent implantation.

3. Outpatient Implant Procedure

Under light sedation, permanent leads and a small battery are implanted. Most patients return home the same day.

4. Programming and Follow-Up

Device representatives and MAPS clinicians fine-tune your settings for optimal comfort and function. Adjustments are easy and non-invasive.

5. Ongoing Support

MAPS provides lifelong support, reprogramming, and battery maintenance when needed.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Neuromodulation isn’t only for those who have “tried everything.” It’s specifically designed for people whose chronic pain has become a daily barrier to normal living—even after multiple treatments. If you’ve been told that surgery is your only option, or that nothing else can help, you may be an ideal candidate for this advanced therapy.

You may be a candidate if you:

Have chronic nerve pain lasting more than six months
Have not achieved relief with medications, injections, or surgery
Want to reduce or stop opioid use
Experience neuropathic pain such as burning, tingling, or stabbing sensations
Have CRPS, diabetic neuropathy, or post-surgical nerve pain

Explore: Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Neuromodulation Therapy?

Neuromodulation vs. Other Pain Treatments

Treatment	Invasiveness	Duration of Relief	Medication Required	Reversibility
Oral Pain Medications	None	Short-term (hours)	Yes	N/A
Epidural Steroid Injections	Minimally Invasive	Weeks to months	No	N/A
Surgery	Invasive	Variable	No	Permanent
Neuromodulation (SCS, DRG, PNS)	Minimally Invasive	Long-term (years)	No	Fully reversible

Compare in detail: Neuromodulation vs. Other Pain Treatments: Choosing the Best Option for Your Nerve Pain

Evidence and Clinical Outcomes

Recent studies support neuromodulation as one of the most successful long-term strategies for neuropathic pain.

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): 60–70% of patients report ≥50% pain relief.
Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG): 70–80% success in CRPS and localized neuropathies (Deer et al., Pain, 2017).
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS): Significant reduction in focal nerve pain for shoulder and knee patients (Ilfeld et al., Pain Medicine, 2021).

According to Dr. Lubenow:
“In properly selected patients, we see 70 to 80 percent achieve at least half or more pain relief with DRG stimulation. That’s not just numbers—it’s real quality-of-life improvement. Many of these patients had already been told nothing else could help them.”

Beyond numbers, patients consistently report:

Better sleep
Reduced medication dependence
Improved mobility
Restored ability to work and exercise

Safety and Recovery

Neuromodulation is considered low-risk and reversible.
Possible side effects may include temporary soreness, lead migration, or infection—complications that are rare when performed by experienced specialists.

Recovery Timeline:

1–2 days of mild soreness
Resume light activity within a week
Full recovery and reprogramming within 2–3 weeks

Learn about patient experiences on our main page: Neuromodulation: Advanced Pain Relief at MAPS Centers for Pain Control

Long-Term Results & Maintenance

Neuromodulation is built for longevity.

Battery life: 7–10 years (some recharge wirelessly through the skin).
Reprogramming: Quick, non-surgical updates at any MAPS office.
MRI compatibility: Most new systems are MRI-safe—your physician will confirm device guidelines.

More insight: How Neuromodulation Eases Nerve Pain

When to Consider Neuromodulation

Here are five quick signs you might benefit from neuromodulation:

Your pain persists despite medication or injections.
Pain radiates along a nerve path (leg, arm, or foot).
You’re reducing daily activity to avoid pain.
Sleep and mood are affected by chronic discomfort.
You’re seeking a non-surgical, reversible option.

Learn more in: 5 Quick Signs You Might Benefit from Neuromodulation

FAQs

1. How does neuromodulation differ from nerve ablation?
Ablation destroys small nerve fibers; neuromodulation preserves nerves and retrains them through stimulation.
2. Can neuromodulation help diabetic neuropathy?
Yes. Spinal cord and DRG stimulation reduce burning and numbness in diabetic neuropathy by improving nerve signaling and blood flow.
3. Will I feel the stimulation?
Modern systems are paresthesia-free—most patients feel no tingling at all.
4. Is it covered by insurance?
Yes. Medicare and most commercial plans cover SCS, DRG, and PNS for chronic neuropathic pain.
5. What if my pain changes over time?
Your MAPS team can reprogram the device in minutes to adapt to new pain patterns.
6. How long does a neuromodulation device last?
Most devices last 7–10 years depending on usage and whether the system is rechargeable. Replacement is simple—only the small battery unit is changed, not the implanted leads.
7. Can I go through airport security or use electronic devices with a stimulator?
Yes. You can travel and use personal electronics as normal. You’ll receive an implant ID card to show during airport screening. Most devices are compatible with everyday technology, including smartphones and computers.
8. Is neuromodulation only for back or leg pain?
No. While it’s commonly used for spinal or limb pain, neuromodulation also treats shoulder, hip, knee, and post-surgical nerve pain, as well as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and certain headache conditions.
9. What is the recovery process like after implantation?
Recovery is generally quick. Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days and return to light activity within a week. Full recovery typically occurs in two to three weeks, with noticeable pain improvement soon after.
10. How soon can I expect to feel relief?
Many patients feel significant relief during the trial phase, often within days. After the permanent implant, pain control continues to improve as the device is fine-tuned and your body adjusts.

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Schedule Your Consultation

You don’t have to live with constant nerve pain. Whether your symptoms stem from neuropathy, spinal injury, or complex regional pain, neuromodulation offers proven, minimally invasive relief.

“Our goal,” says Dr. Lubenow, “is to restore function, not just reduce pain. Neuromodulation gives people their lives back—and it does so safely, predictably, and without major surgery.”

Contact MAPS Centers for Pain Control in Chicago to schedule your consultation and learn whether Spinal Cord, DRG, or Peripheral Nerve Stimulation could change your life.

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