Practice Parameters for the Use of Spinal Cord Stimulation in the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Pain

Impact of On/Off Time

Does imposed on/off time have an impact on pain relief?

On/off time (the duty cycle) has a direct effect on battery longevity (or on the recharging interval), but the impact of an imposed duty cycle on pain relief is unknown.  In some patients, pain relief persists for a week after the device is turned off; others must operate the stimulator continuously to obtain pain relief.

Strength of recommendation Evidence source(s)/rationale
N/A -- information only N/A -- see Bibliography for relevant literature

Monhemius R, Simpson BA. Efficacy of spinal cord stimulation for neuropathic pain: assessment by abstinence. Eur J Pain 7(6):513-519, 2003.
Abstract | Wikistim Entry

Kumar K, Hunter G, Demeria D. Spinal cord stimulation in treatment of chronic benign pain: challenges in treatment planning and present status, a 22-year experience. Neurosurgery 58(3):481-494, 2006.
Abstract | Wikistim Entry