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

NCT ID NCT03852381

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.

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 neuralgia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Toronto Western Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••