According to the idea of the gate control theory, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) would be efficient in suppressing both acute and chronic pain of a nociceptive nature. This is, however, a paradox because SCS is preferentially effective for neuropathic and ischemic forms of pain. Experiments on animal models of neuropathy have demonstrated that SCS inhibits hyperexcitability of wide dynamic range (WDR) cells in the dorsal horn. SCS also induces release of GABA in the dorsal horn, with a subsequent decrease of the interstitial glutamate concentration. Neuropathic pain, especially that following peripheral nerve injury, is regarded by many to be the prime indication for SCS, with the best chances of obtaining satisfactory and long-lasting pain relief. The most common indication for SCS is chronic intractable neuropathic pain due to failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) . Neuropathic pain due to complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is another common indication. It should be emphasized that the primary indication for SCS in conditions of PVD is ischemic pain. For each condition, SCS is considered as a pain management therapy only after conventional pain therapies, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, if applicable, have been attempted and have failed. The main advantages of SCS are its minimal invasiveness and reversibility, as well as some convincing studies justifying its use.