Abstract

A programming system and method for use with an implantable tissue stimulator allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a multiplicity of electrodes in an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Such system and method allows the clinician or user to readily select and visualize a particular group of electrodes of the electrode array by displaying a visual image of the array, and then allows selection of a group of electrodes in the array, as well as the ability to move the selected group or change the size of the selected group, while applying a stimulation pulse current having a selected amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate, to the group of electrodes. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of a directional pointing device, such as a joystick. Through use of the programming system, the clinician or patient is able to select for stimulation only those electrodes which prove most effective for a desired purpose, e.g., pain relief, to best meet the needs of a particular patient.