[The evolution, current practice, and future directions of neuromodulation for neuropathic pain]

Neuropathic pain (NP) refers to pain caused by a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. It typically follows a chronic course, characterized by persistent or recurrent pain that can lead to substantial suffering and functional impairment. Because conventional treatments often provide inadequate relief, neuromodulation has emerged as an important therapeutic approach. Focusing on the developmental trajectory of neuromodulation techniques, this article systematically reviews their historical evolution in the treatment of neuropathic pain, the current core technological systems, and the selection of treatment regimens. It further discusses future directions, with an emphasis on precision, intelligence, and standardization, aiming to provide a reference for clinical decision-making in pain medicine, the application of relevant technologies, and scientific research orientation.