Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how spinal cord stimulation (SCS) changes sensations in people with chronic pain. Researchers seek to understand how different stimulator settings affect these sensations. The trial is for individuals receiving an SCS implant, who can walk 10 meters unassisted, and have long-lasting pain issues. Those who meet these criteria might consider joining to help advance pain management research. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research in pain management.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that spinal cord stimulation is safe for chronic pain?
Research has shown that spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is generally safe for treating chronic pain. One study found that SCS was safe for long-term use in people with chronic pain, with most patients not experiencing serious side effects. Another study found that patients using SCS often experienced a significant reduction in pain without major problems. Overall, existing evidence suggests that SCS is well-tolerated and rarely causes severe side effects.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is unique because it offers a different approach to managing chronic pain compared to standard treatments like medication or physical therapy. Unlike these common methods, SCS works by sending electrical pulses to the spinal cord, which helps disrupt the pain signals before they reach the brain. This technique can potentially provide significant pain relief without the side effects associated with long-term medication use. Researchers are excited about SCS because it has the potential to improve quality of life for people who haven't found relief through other treatments.
What evidence suggests that spinal cord stimulation is effective for chronic pain?
Research has shown that spinal cord stimulation (SCS), the treatment under study in this trial, can significantly reduce long-term pain. Studies have found that individuals using SCS are more likely to experience at least a 50% decrease in pain, particularly in the back or legs. In practical application, 90.1% of patients had a successful trial with SCS, and 80.4% proceeded to receive a permanent implant. This treatment also alleviates symptoms for many and reduces the need for painkillers like opioids. Overall, SCS offers a promising approach to managing chronic pain effectively.25678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amol Yadav, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with chronic pain conditions such as peripheral neuropathy. Participants should be experiencing ongoing pain and may have difficulty recognizing the onset of their own pain (anosognosia). Specific eligibility criteria are not provided, but typically include age, health status, and type of chronic pain.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo spinal cord stimulation to assess sensory perceptions and changes with modified parameters
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Collaborator