What are peripheral nerve stimulators?
Peripheral nerve stimulators, or PNS, is a minimally invasive technique that is commonly used to treat chronic pain symptoms. This treatment includes placing a small electrical device next to one of the peripheral nerves, which then delivers rapid electrical pulses that are felt like mild tingles. These pulses essentially replace the pain. This therapy can be a less invasive procedure compares to spinal cord stimulation or surgery.
Who needs a PNS?
Patients that suffer from certain conditions can benefit many different types of pain, including but not limited to:
- Chronic back pain
- Headaches with occipital nerve irritation
- Nerve compression
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Chronic neuropathic pain of the upper and lower extremities
- Persistent shoulder and knee pain
- Groin or nerve pain after surgery
What should I expect during a PNS?
A peripheral nerve stimulation is typically done in two stages, several days apart. During the first stage, a thin wire with small mental electrodes near the tip is implanted near the pain-causing nerve. They will be secured in place and tested for a few days to ensure the treatment is working. You will also be asked to describe your pain and intensity.
The brain is then tricked into turning off the painful signals via electrical pulses that interfere with pain signals. This changes the way the brain perceives the pain, thus providing pain relief. The implanted electrode receives energy from an external device which, when turned on, feels like a mild tingling in the area where pain is felt.
If you are happy with the amount of pain relief you experience, the full implantation would then be performed. The temporary wires are removed, and the implanted electrodes are connected to new wires, which are then plugged into a battery that is implanted under the skin in your chest, back or abdomen. The battery will be programmed to fit your needs. Battery life varies depending on the usage.
What are benefits of a PNS?
Peripheral nerve stimulators can provide a wide range of benefits that can significantly improve quality of life and provide pain relief immediately in some cases. Typically, patients feel the benefit for several years or longer. It is important to remember that PNS is not a cure but helps to manage and treat symptoms of the underlying condition. Some of the benefits of PNS include:
- Significant relief – in most cases, patients experience significant relief from their symptoms.
- Non-invasive – as opposed to surgeries that involve manipulation of the spinal cord, this procedure reduces associated risks.
- Improve function and quality of life – blocking the pain signals from reaching the brain allows patients to experience improved physical function, enhanced mobility, and increased overall well-being.
- Personalized response – since everyone’s needs are different, PNS can be customized in terms of frequency, intensity, and duration, allowing for optimal treatment and outcomes.
What are risks of a PNS?
As with any procedure, there are certain risks associated with PNS, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Allergy to the anesthetic.
- Movement of the electrode, resulting in another procedure.
- Failure of the stimulator.
- Worsened pain.
If you notice any unusual symptoms following your procedure, such as fever, swelling, infection, weakness, or numbness, contact your healthcare provider immediately.