Paresthesia
Pronunciation: pair-es-THEE-zee-ah
Abnormal tingling or prickling sensation often used to guide neuromodulation device programming.
Full Definition
Paresthesia refers to an abnormal sensation, typically described as tingling, prickling, or numbness, that occurs without external stimulation. In neuromodulation, paresthesias are commonly experienced during spinal cord stimulation and serve as an important clinical indicator of proper lead placement and stimulation coverage. Traditional spinal cord stimulation systems rely on patients experiencing paresthesias in their pain distribution areas as confirmation of therapeutic effect. However, newer sub-threshold stimulation technologies aim to provide pain relief without generating paresthesias. The quality, location, and intensity of paresthesias guide programming adjustments and treatment optimization.
Usage
Usage note: Note the 'th' spelling; commonly misspelled as 'parasthesia'.
In Context
- "The patient reported pleasant paresthesias covering 80% of their chronic pain distribution." — Programming session note
- "Sub-threshold stimulation provides pain relief without generating paresthesias." — Technology comparison document