A method for implanting an electrical stimulation lead into a patient includes inserting an elongated sheath into a patient. The sheath includes a sheath body with a proximal end and a distal tip. The sheath defines a lumen extending from the proximal end of the sheath to the distal tip. The distal tip of the sheath is advanced to the patient's epidural space. The distal tip of the sheath is positioned at a target implantation location. A lead is advanced along the lumen of the sheath from the proximal end of the sheath body to the distal tip. The lead includes a lead body and a plurality of electrodes disposed along a distal end of the lead body. The sheath is removed from the patient while leaving the distal end of the lead at the target implantation location.
