User interface for segmented neurostimulation leads

An external control device for use with a neurostimulation system having one or more neurostimulation leads carrying a plurality of electrodes capable of conveying an electrical stimulation field into tissue in which the electrodes are implanted, comprising:

• a user interface including a representation of the electrodes and a rotational control element configured for being actuated by rotating the rotational control element about a point;
• a processor configured for generating a set of stimulation parameters to rotationally displace a locus of the electrical stimulation field as indicated by the rotational control element by controlling a selection of one or more electrodes from the plurality of electrodes and controlling an adjustable fractionalization of a total amount of current flowing collectively through the selected one or more electrodes when the rotational control element is actuated, wherein the fractionalization describes, for each of the selected one or more electrodes, what fraction of the total amount of current flows through that electrode;
• and
• output circuitry configured for transmitting the set of stimulation parameters to the neurostimulation system.