An implantable lead has a lead body construction designed to accommodate
loading forces exerted on the lead body during patient movement. The lead
body may be sufficiently stretchable to resist forces that could
otherwise cause lead failure, axial migration of the electrodes, anchor
damage, or tissue damage. Increasing stretchability of a lead body can
also increase the vulnerability of the lead body to flex fatigue,
buckling fatigue, kinking, and crush. Therefore, the lead described
herein includes a coiled wire stylet guide to provide enhanced column
strength. The coiled wire stylet guide may or may not be electrically
conductive.