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

Paresthesia

Spinal cord stimulation creates a tingling sensation, known as "paresthesia." Stimulation parameters and electrical contact combinations are adjusted by a trained professional during the screening trial and after implantation to 1) find the best settings for patients to use as they pursue activities of daily life, 2) maximize comfortable pain/paresthesia overlap, and 2) minimize power requirements. Paresthesia/pain overlap is considered necessary to achieve pain relief because the tingling sensation masks the sensation of pain.