New burst stimulation for chronic pain studied – but trial stopped early

NCT ID NCT03718325

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at a new type of spinal cord stimulation called burst stimulation (Burst-SCS) to see how it reduces chronic pain. It included 12 people with long-term pain, mostly from failed back surgery. The trial was terminated early, so the findings are limited and not conclusive.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

burst spinal cord stimulation (Burst-SCS) delivered via a device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new way to ease chronic pain without drugs.

What could go wrong

The study was terminated early and very small (12 people), so results are uncertain. It may not work better than a sham device.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain chronic pain syndrome Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States