
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
DRG Therapy for Targeted Pain- How it works
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Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) therapy is an advanced treatment for chronic pain that provides highly targeted pain relief by stimulating specific nerves. It is particularly effective for pain in areas such as the foot, knee, groin, or lower back that may not respond well to other treatments.DRG therapy works by delivering mild electrical signals to the dorsal root ganglion, a nerve cluster that plays a key role in processing pain. Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation, which affects a broader area, DRG stimulation allows for more precise targeting of pain signals, reducing unnecessary stimulation in non-painful areas.Research shows that DRG therapy is especially effective for nerve-related pain conditions, such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and chronic post-surgical pain after knee replacement, hernia repair, or amputation. Patients who have persistent pain after surgery, including SI joint fusion or foot and ankle procedures, may also benefit.A DRG trial is required before permanent implantation. Patients first undergo a temporary trial to determine if stimulation provides at least 50% pain relief, which research shows is a strong predictor of long-term success. If the trial is successful, a permanent system is implanted to provide ongoing pain relief. For those who qualify, DRG therapy can provide long-term pain relief, reduce reliance on medications, and improve mobility. If chronic nerve pain persists despite other treatments, DRG therapy may offer a more targeted approach to relief. Talk to your doctor to see if this treatment is right for you.
FAQs
How does DRG therapy differ from traditional spinal cord stimulation?
While traditional spinal cord stimulation affects a broader area, DRG therapy allows for more precise targeting of pain signals. This means it can reduce unnecessary stimulation in non-painful areas, allowing for more effective management of specific nerve-related pain conditions.
What are the long-term benefits of DRG therapy?
For qualified patients, DRG therapy can lead to long-term pain relief, a reduction in the need for medications, and improved mobility. If chronic nerve pain persists despite other treatments, DRG therapy may present a more focused approach to achieving pain relief. Consulting with a doctor can help determine if DRG therapy is an appropriate option.
What is Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) therapy?
Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) therapy is an advanced treatment designed to provide targeted pain relief by stimulating specific nerves. It involves the delivery of mild electrical signals to the dorsal root ganglion, a nerve cluster crucial in processing pain signals. This therapy is particularly effective for chronic pain in areas like the foot, knee, groin, or lower back.
What is involved in the DRG therapy trial?
Before permanent implantation of the DRG system, patients undergo a temporary trial to assess its effectiveness. This trial requires the stimulation to provide at least 50% pain relief, which research indicates as a strong predictor of long-term success with DRG therapy.
Who can benefit from DRG therapy?
DRG therapy is especially beneficial for individuals suffering from nerve-related pain conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and chronic post-surgical pain. It is also suitable for patients who continue to experience pain after surgeries like knee replacements, hernia repairs, and amputations.