Brain scans aim to unlock secrets of spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain

NCT ID NCT03852381

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Health Network, Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at two types of spinal cord stimulation for people with long-term nerve pain after back surgery. One type causes a tingling sensation, while newer types do not. Researchers will use brain scans and pain questionnaires to figure out how each type works and which patients are most likely to benefit. The goal is to improve pain relief and reduce side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Spinal cord stimulation device
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors choose the best stimulation mode for each patient and improve long-term pain relief.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage observational study with only 90 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The main goal is understanding, not proving a new treatment works.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CHRONIC PAIN are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain chronic pain syndrome neuralgia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHRONIC PAIN NEUROPATHIC PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Toronto Western Hospital
RECRUITING

Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.