Dorsal root ganglion stimulation for treatment of central poststroke pain in the lower extremity after medullary infarction

We report a case of relief in central poststroke pain of the lower extremity by stimulation of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Central poststroke pain is a poorly understood and even more poorly managed condition that can greatly impact the quality of life. To the best of our knowledge, this investigation is the first to describe the successful treatment of previously intractable chronic pain caused by stroke using DRG stimulation. Noting the anatomical structures and the physiological function, the efficacy of DRG stimulation in central poststroke pain could be explained in a neurophysiological manner. This clinical observation successfully builds on the existing understanding around the pathophysiology of central pain and offers the possibility of nondrug therapy for the treatment of this often refractory chronic pain syndrome.