Brain Connectivity and Chronic Neuropathic Pain Treatment Using Spinal Cord Stimulation A Resting State NIRSEEG Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how spinal cord stimulation SCS affects brain structure and function in people with chronic neuropathic pain. The study aims to understand brain changes linked to pain relief from SCS using a non-invasive imaging method called resting state Near Infrared Spectroscopy and Electroencephalography rs-fNIRSEEG. The study involves veterans who either are new to SCS treatment or have been using it long-term. Participants are divided into two groups those new to SCS undergoing a trial period, and those who have had an implanted SCS device for at least six months. The new users will have two study visits, one before starting the trial and one after the trial period, with brain imaging and clinical pain assessments. Long-term users will have three visits over 24 to 48 hours, including times during active SCS use and after a washout period without stimulation. Both groups receive paresthesia-based SCS as part of their care. During the visits, participants will undergo brain scans using rs-fNIRSEEG and complete various clinical pain questionnaires such as the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29. Activity monitoring will also be done. Researchers will study changes in brain connectivity and pain levels to identify brain signatures related to pain relief. This research will help improve understanding of how SCS works and may lead to better patient selection for this therapy. The study is expected to continue until June 2027.

Brain Connectivity Changes With Spinal Cord Stimulation and Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Resting State NIRS/EEG Study