If you have chronic pain in the abdomen, hip, groin, knee, back, pelvis, foot, or ankle that’s hard to treat, a Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation trial could help. This trial lasts about 7 to 10 days, and a permanent implant decision depends on your results. Here’s what to know before and after your procedure.

Prepare your body by eating an anti-inflammatory diet and getting plenty of sleep to aid recovery. Don’t eat for 8 hours before the procedure, but clear liquids are allowed up to 2 hours prior. Follow your doctor’s advice if you take blood thinners.

Use a pre-surgical wash like Hibiclens® the night before and morning of your procedure to reduce infection risk. Wear loose-fitting clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home.

After the procedure, keep your trial leads dry. Avoid submerging or showering directly; sponge baths are best to protect the dressing and leads. Avoid bending, twisting, or heavy lifting while the leads are in place.

Antibiotics might be prescribed—check with your medical team. Adjust the stimulator remote for optimal pain relief. Some bleeding on the bandage is normal.

Your device representative can assist with using the stimulator. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience loss of bladder or bowel control, severe headache, fever, or loss of feeling.

This trial helps determine if DRG stimulation offers meaningful pain relief. If it does, the team will consider a permanent implant.