FURI | Fall 2025

Optimization of Inter-electrode Spacing for Occipital Nerve Stimulation in the Treatment of Headache Disorders

Occipital Nerve Stimulation (ONS) has proven to be an effective treatment in pain mitigation for a variety of headache disorders. Implantable electrodes show successful stimulation of the Occipital Nerve (ON). However, high voltages can cause considerable discomfort for patients as well as result in damage to local tissue. Therefore, this project seeks to optimize threshold voltages by manipulating inter-electrode spacing through a Finite Element Model (FEM). Correlation of activation thresholds and their respective electric field distributions provides insight into optimal parameters. The findings can aid in the improvement of neuromodulation techniques and patient quality of life.