A method is described for delivering stimulation signals in an implantable multichannel neuro-stimulating device such as a cochlear implant. A stimulation channel is selected for delivering a data stimulation signal. One or more desensitization channels spatially adjacent to the stimulation channel are also selected. One or more non-data desensitization signals are delivered on the desensitization channels during a desensitization period before delivery of the data stimulation signal, and then the data stimulation signal is delivered on the stimulation channel. The stimulation channel may be blanked to prevent stimulation signals during a sensitization period before delivering the data stimulation signal.
