Now Offering Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) - Relief for Chronic Pain & Stress-Related Conditions
Atlas Pain Specialists Logo, featuring caduceus with snakes and wings icon at on its left side, on a transparent background

Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation

In Phoenix Arizona

Atlas Pain Specialists offers DRG stimulation in Phoenix, AZ to provide targeted pain relief for patients with chronic and neuropathic pain conditions. This advanced treatment is designed to precisely address pain signals, helping reduce discomfort and improving quality of life through a focused and patient-centered approach.
Overview

What Is Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation?

DRG Stimulation is an advanced neuromodulation therapy designed to treat chronic nerve pain that hasn’t responded to conventional treatments. Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which delivers broad electrical stimulation to the spinal cord, DRG stimulation targets specific nerve clusters known as the dorsal root ganglia, which are responsible for transmitting pain signals from different areas of the body to the brain. By sending mild electrical pulses to these nerves, DRG stimulation helps disrupt pain signals, leading to long-term relief.

This minimally invasive treatment is particularly effective for patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), post-surgical nerve pain, and other focal nerve pain conditions. Many individuals who have undergone DRG stimulation experience significant pain reduction, improved mobility, and a reduced reliance on pain medications. The therapy is adjustable, allowing customized pain relief, and it offers a reversible alternative to more invasive pain management options.

Benefits of 
DRG Stimulation

Highly Targeted Pain Relief

DRG stimulation is uniquely designed to target specific nerve clusters responsible for chronic pain, making it particularly effective for localized pain conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), post-surgical nerve pain, and nerve injuries. Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which provides broad pain relief, DRG therapy focuses directly on the affected nerves, delivering more precise and effective pain reduction. This makes it an excellent option for patients whose pain is concentrated in a specific area, providing superior pain control where other treatments may fall short.

Minimally Invasive with a Quick Recover

One of the biggest advantages of DRG stimulation is its minimally invasive approach, requiring only small incisions to implant the device. Because it does not involve major spinal surgery, patients typically go home the same day and recover faster than they would with more invasive procedures. Many individuals return to light activities within days, avoiding the extended downtime, hospital stays, and lengthy rehabilitation associated with traditional spinal surgeries. This quick recovery time allows patients to get back to their daily routines with minimal disruption while enjoying long-term pain relief.

Dependence on Pain Medications

Chronic pain often leads to long-term reliance on opioids and other medications, which can result in dependency, tolerance, and serious side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and cognitive impairment. DRG stimulation offers an alternative by directly modifying pain signals at the source, reducing or eliminating the need for daily medication use. Many patients find they no longer require high doses of opioids, allowing them to experience effective pain relief without the risks of addiction. By addressing pain through neuromodulation, DRG therapy provides a safer, long-term solution to managing chronic nerve pain.

Customizable Pain Management

DRG stimulation devices offer real-time adjustability, allowing patients to fine-tune the intensity of their therapy based on pain levels, activity, and daily needs. Unlike medications that offer a one-size-fits-all approach, DRG stimulation provides personalized pain relief that can be adapted as symptoms change. Many systems come with remote controls or smartphone applications, allowing for on-the-go adjustments. This flexibility ensures that patients always receive the optimal level of pain control without over- or under-stimulation, making daily activities and movement more comfortable.

Reversible and Adjustable

Unlike spinal fusion or other permanent surgeries, DRG stimulation is a fully reversible treatment. If sufficient relief is not reached, the device can be easily removed without lasting effects on the spine and nerves. In addition, the stimulator settings can be adjusted over time to maintain optimal pain relief. This adjustability makes DRG stimulation an excellent long-term option that provides continuous and adaptable pain relief without the risk of irreversible surgical procedures.

Improved Quality of Life

Chronic pain can severely impact mobility, sleep, and emotional well-being, often leading to depression, anxiety, and limitations on daily activities. DRG stimulation helps restore a sense of normalcy by significantly reducing pain and improving physical function. Patients report better sleep, increased mobility, and the ability to return to hobbies, work, and social activities that were once restricted by pain. By providing consistent and lasting pain relief, DRG therapy allows individuals to take control of their lives again, improving both their mental and physical well-being.

Conditions Treated with DRG Stimulation

DRG Stimulation is particularly effective for treating chronic, focal nerve pain conditions that have not responded to other treatments, including:
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS I & II) – A severe nerve disorder that causes intense pain, usually in the limbs.
Post-Surgical Nerve Pain – Chronic pain following surgeries such as knee replacements, hernia repair, or C-sections.
Peripheral Nerve Pain – Pain caused by nerve damage due to injury, diabetes, or surgical procedures
Post-Amputation Pain – Relief for phantom limb pain and residual limb discomfort after amputation..
Lower Extremity Pain  – Chronic pain in the groin, legs, or feet that has not improved with other treatments.

Purpose

Limitations

Risks

Process

Types

Purpose of DRG Stimulation

The goal of DRG Stimulation is to interrupt the transmission of pain signals before they reach the brain, providing long-term relief for patients suffering from localized, nerve-related pain. Unlike systemic pain treatments like medications, which affect the entire nervous system, DRG stimulation delivers precise electrical pulses to the dorsal root ganglia, modulating pain at the nerve root level.

By targeting specific areas of nerve pain, DRG therapy helps restore mobility, reduce medication dependence, and improve overall well-being. This treatment is especially beneficial for individuals with CRPS, post-surgical pain, and chronic nerve-related conditions, offering a minimally invasive yet highly effective solution.

Limitations of DRG Stimulation

While DRG stimulation has been shown to be highly effective, it may not be suitable for all types of chronic pain. The treatment works best for localized neuropathic pain, meaning conditions such as widespread pain disorders like fibromyalgia or mechanical back pain may not respond as well.

Additionally, the procedure requires a trial phase to determine if the patient will benefit from permanent implantation. Some individuals may not respond well to the therapy, or they may find the sensation of electrical stimulation uncomfortable. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as active infections, bleeding disorders, or pacemakers, may not be eligible for the procedure. Insurance coverage for DRG stimulation can also vary, requiring evaluation before proceeding.

Potential Risks of DRG Stimulation

While DRG stimulation is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, there are some risks associated with the implantation process. These include:

  • Infection – There is a small risk of infection at the implant site, which may require treatment or removal of the device.
  • Lead Migration – The implanted electrodes may shift, leading to reduced effectiveness and requiring repositioning.
  • Device Malfunction – Though rare, the stimulator may fail or require adjustments or replacement over time.
  • Nerve Irritation – Some patients may experience tingling, discomfort, or an unpleasant stimulation sensation, which can usually be adjusted through reprogramming.
  • Incomplete Pain Relief – While many patients achieve significant pain reduction, some may only experience partial relief or require additional pain management strategies.

Overall, DRG stimulation is considered low-risk, and complications are rare compared to more invasive surgical treatments.

The DRG Stimulation Process

The DRG stimulation procedure is a two-step process that includes a trial phase followed by permanent implantation.

  1. Trial Phase – A temporary electrode is implanted near the dorsal root ganglion, and the patient wears an external stimulator for 5-7 days to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy.
  2. Evaluation – If the trial results in at least 50% pain relief, the patient moves forward with permanent implantation.
  3. Permanent Implantation – A small pulse generator is implanted under the skin, and leads are permanently placed near the target nerves.
  4. Programming & Adjustments – The device is customized to deliver the right level of electrical pulses to manage pain.
  5. Recovery & Follow-Up – Patients typically resume light activities within a few days, with regular follow-ups to optimize therapy settings for long-term effectiveness
Types of DRG Stimulation Devices

There are different types of DRG stimulation devices, each offering unique features for personalized pain management:

  • Traditional DRG Stimulators – Deliver continuous electrical pulses to block pain signals, with adjustable settings for different pain levels.
  • Rechargeable DRG Stimulators – Designed for long-term use, these devices offer extended battery life and the ability to recharge as needed.
  • Non-Rechargeable Stimulators – A simpler option for patients who prefer low-maintenance devices, though they may require battery replacement every 5-10 years.
  • Wireless DRG Stimulation Systems – Advanced devices that eliminate the need for large implants, offering a less invasive and cosmetically appealing option.

Each device is tailored to the patient’s needs, allowing customized pain relief based on individual conditions and lifestyles.

Types of Vertebral Compression Fractures Treated with Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is most effective for acute or subacute compression fractures, meaning fractures that are relatively recent and still causing pain. Some of the common types include:

  • Wedge fractures: The front of the vertebra collapses, creating a wedge-like shape and leading to kyphosis (hunchback posture).
  • Biconcave fractures: The middle of the vertebra collapses, causing the bone to become concave in appearance.
  • Crush fractures: The entire vertebra collapses uniformly, which can lead to severe instability.

The type and severity of the fracture determine whether kyphoplasty or another treatment approach is best.

We are here to help!
Ask us anything, or 
schedule a same day
appointment.
Contact Us

Accepted Insurances

No referral necessary! Just call us and we'll handle all the billing with your insurance company.
Check Insurance
crossmenu