Is Neuromodulation Right for Your Pain? | Vertrae® 360 Spine Talk (Ep. 31)

Neuromodulation is often described as a “last resort” for chronic pain — but it is not one single treatment, and it is not right for every patient. In this episode of Vertrae® 360 Spine Talk, we break down Dr. Kamal Woods’ three-family framework for understanding advanced neuromodulation therapies: spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, and ReActiv8® restorative neurostimulation.This conversation explains why the right treatment depends on the specific pattern, location, and mechanism of pain. Broad, burning nerve pain may point toward traditional spinal cord stimulation, while highly localized pain — such as certain cases of complex regional pain syndrome, post-surgical nerve pain, or focal groin and foot pain — may fit DRG stimulation. For deep mechanical low back pain connected to multifidus dysfunction, ReActiv8® works differently by helping restore muscle function rather than simply masking pain signals.The episode also explores what patients can expect from a temporary neuromodulation trial, why patient selection matters, and how clinical research like the ACCURATE trial, EVOKE trial, and RESTORE trial helps guide treatment decisions.If you have lived with chronic pain despite pills, injections, therapy, or prior surgery, this episode offers a clearer way to think about whether neuromodulation may fit your pain — and why getting an honest “yes,” “no,” or “not this treatment” can be the most important outcome of a consultation.Topics covered include: Spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain Dorsal root ganglion stimulation, or DRG-S ReActiv8® restorative neurostimulation Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS Focal nerve pain vs widespread nerve pain Mechanical low back pain and multifidus dysfunction Temporary stimulator trials Neuromodulation patient selection Chronic pain after surgery Dr. Kamal Woods and Vertrae® Surgery Center in Dayton, OhioDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.