Pain management with stimulation subthreshold to paresthesia

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods are provided for treating pain while minimizing or eliminating possible complications and undesired side effects, particularly the sensation of paresthesia. This is achieved by stimulating in proximity to a dorsal root ganglion with stimulation energy in a manner that will affect pain sensations without generating substantial sensations of paresthesia. In some embodiments, such neurostimulation takes advantage of anatomical features and functions particular to the dorsal root ganglion.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of treating pain in a patient comprising:
 positioning a lead having at least one electrode disposed thereon so that at least one of the at least one electrode is in proximity to a dorsal root ganglion; and   providing stimulation energy to the at least one of the at least one electrode so as to stimulate at least a portion of the dorsal root ganglion,   wherein together the positioning of the lead step and the providing stimulation energy step affect pain sensations without generating substantial sensations of paresthesia.