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Peripheral nerve stimulation is a treatment that is used to manage chronic pain that stems from a damaged or diseased somatosensory nervous system. This treatment uses electrical impulses to stimulate the peripheral nerves that are causing the pain. PNS devices are composed of three main components: a battery or power source, a thin wire connected to the electrodes that delivers electrical pulses to the nerve, and a remote control device that allows the settings to be adjusted by the patient. This treatment can be used for a variety of different types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain and cancer-related pain. It is also non-invasive and has very few side effects.
Did You Know?
Electrical impulses generated by PNS devices interrupt pain signals to the brain. This helps to reduce or even eliminate the pain signals that are being sent to the brain. The result is a decrease in or elimination of pain.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for peripheral nerve stimulation?
You may be a candidate for peripheral nerve stimulation if you have chronic neuropathic pain that has not responded to other treatment options. PNS works well for neuropathic pain caused by:
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS, RSD)
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Headache disorders
- Ilioinguinal neuralgia
- Intercostal neuralgia
- Lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy
- Nerve injuries
- Phantom limb pain
- Trigeminal neuralgia
However, your doctor will need to evaluate your specific situation to determine if this treatment is right for you. Schedule a consultation at MVM Health: Pain, Vein, & Wellness to determine if you are an ideal candidate for PNS.
What can I expect when undergoing peripheral nerve stimulation?
If you are a candidate for this treatment, you will first need to undergo a trial period to ensure that the treatment is effective for your pain. During the trial, a temporary electrode will be placed near the peripheral nerve that is causing your pain. An exterior stimulator will be used to stimulate the nerve and determine whether your pain levels are decreased or not. If the trial is successful, a permanent implant will be placed.
The procedure to place an implant is typically done as an outpatient procedure with local anesthetic and mild sedation. To insert the PNS device, a small incision will be made around the desired nerve. The wire electrodes and battery-operated stimulator will be inserted under the skin through this incision. Once the device has been placed, it will be calibrated. Although there are external components, these will only need to be used while using the device and will not need to be worn constantly.
What can I expect after treatment?
After treatment, you can expect a significant reduction in your pain. In some cases, the pain may be completely eliminated. You will also have more control over your pain as you will be able to adjust the settings of the device as needed. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days after treatment.