Mechanisms of Stimulation for Pain Alleviation (MSPA)

Stanford University and the University of Kansas Medical Center are working together to better understand how small nerve-stimulating devices help reduce pain. We are studying two FDA-approved Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) devices used for chronic neuropathic pain in the lower body, NALU and SPR SPRINT. What we learn may guide the future of pain medicine and lead to safer and more effective care.

Participants are randomly placed into one of two groups:

• Conventional Medical Management (CMM)
• Peripheral Nerve Stimulation plus CMM (PNS + CMM)
   

*You must already be receiving either a NALU or SPR SPRINT device as part of your normal medical care.* Your medical procedure will not be delayed or changed by joining the study.

*This study is only open to patients at the Stanford Pain Management Center in Redwood City*
 

• Be receiving a NALU or SPR SPRINT PNS trial as part of your standard of care
• Have chronic neuropathic (nerve) pain
• Have had temporary relief from a nerve block
• Not be pregnant or planning pregnancy during the study

• At least 2 in-person visits at the Stanford Pain Management Center (Redwood City)
• Sensory testing for heat, cold, and pressure
• PET/MRI or PET/CT imaging with a new radiotracer
• Pain score reporting
• Follow-up for up to 1 year

• Complete an online baseline survey before your first visit
• Monthly online questionnaires
• Daily pain ratings for 2 days after in-person appointments

• PNS + CMM group: up to $1,510
• CMM-only group: up to $930
• Breakdown:
  • $50 for baseline
  • $20 for each extra online survey
  • $200 for each sensory testing (QST) visit
  • $200 for each imaging visit (PET/MRI or PET/CT)