Pain Stimulators and MRI-Safe Scanning:
What You Need to Know
If you live with chronic pain, your doctor may want to learn more about how your body feels and reacts to it. One way to do this is with a pain stimulator. These devices help doctors understand your pain so they can choose the right care for you. If you need an MRI scan, you may wonder if a pain stimulator is safe inside the scanner. This article will explain both in simple terms.
What Is a Pain Stimulator?
A pain stimulator is a small medical device that sends mild signals to certain nerves in your body. These signals can create or reduce pain in a controlled way. Doctors use it to:
- Find out where pain is coming from
- Test how your body responds to treatment
- Plan for surgery or long-term pain therapy
The most common type is a spinal cord stimulator, which delivers gentle electrical pulses to nerves in the spine to help manage chronic pain.
Some pain stimulators are worn outside the body, while others are placed under the skin during a short procedure.
What Does MRI-Safe Mean?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a powerful scan that uses magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Some devices, like older pain stimulators, are not safe for MRI because the strong magnet can move metal parts or heat up wires inside the body.
When a device is MRI-safe or MRI-conditional, it means it has been tested to work safely in the MRI machine under certain conditions. Your doctor and MRI team will check the device type, settings, and your medical records before the scan.
Why MRI Safety Matters
If a pain stimulator is not MRI-safe, having a scan could:
- Damage the device
- Cause burns or other injury
- Give unclear images
This is why it is very important to tell your MRI team about your device before the scan. They may need to adjust the scanner, turn the device off, or choose a different type of imaging.
How to Prepare for an MRI With a Pain Stimulator
If you have a pain stimulator and need an MRI:
- Bring your device card — It lists the brand, model, and MRI safety information.
- Tell your doctor and MRI technologist about the device before your appointment.
- Follow all instructions — This may include turning the device off or having a specialist present.
Key Takeaways
- Pain stimulators help doctors learn more about your pain and plan your care.
- Not all pain stimulators are MRI-safe.
- Always share device details with your care team before an MRI.
- Safety steps can help you get the imaging you need without risking harm.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about your health and treatment options.