Closed-loop spinal cord stimulation for treating complex regional pain syndrome

Efficacy of Closed-Loop Spinal Cord Stimulation for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Not applicable Interventional Scripps Health · NCT06421350

This study is testing a new spinal cord stimulation method to see if it can help people with complex regional pain syndrome feel better, comparing those with recent symptoms to those with long-term pain.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment32 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorScripps Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (La Jolla, California)
Trial IDNCT06421350 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of closed-loop spinal cord stimulation in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) by comparing outcomes between those in the acute/subacute phase and those in the chronic phase. Participants will be divided into two groups based on the timing of their symptoms and will undergo a 7-day trial with a temporary spinal cord stimulator. If the device shows improvement in pain and function, a permanent device will be implanted. Patients will complete outcome assessments at baseline, after the trial, and at 3 and 6 months, along with blood tests to measure prolactin levels associated with pain and stress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with unilateral CRPS type 1 or type 2 who have not previously undergone neuromodulation treatments.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old or those with prior neuromodulation treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management and quality of life for patients with complex regional pain syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While spinal cord stimulation has been studied for pain management, this specific closed-loop approach in CRPS is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older
* neuromodulation naive patients with unilateral CRPS type 1 or type 2 (defined by Budapest Criteria)
* pre-procedure psychological clearance

Exclusion Criteria:

* younger than 18 years
* prior neuromodulation including spinal cord stimulation
* prior dorsal root ganglion stimulation
* prior peripheral nervous system stimulation
* anatomical obstacles to dorsal column lead placement

Where this trial is running

La Jolla, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Complex Regional Pain Syndromes
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.