Published on May 21, 2023
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is revolutionizing pain management. PNS allows us to treat many types of pain by directly stimulating specific nerves that carry pain signals.
Ultimately, for any injury, the pain signal must travel along the nerves, first to the spinal cord and then to the brain, where it is interpreted.
In the past, we could only change nerve conduction through spinal cord stimulation. This requires surgically placing “leads” (thin wires) into the spinal canal and connecting them to the implanted battery.
Now, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) can reduce pain by altering pain signals near the source of pain, making them significantly weaker.
Through PNS, it is finally possible to treat:
- Many types of nerve pain and neuropathy
Arthritis pain in knees and shoulders
Low back pain after surgery
Knee pain, foot and ankle pain after surgery
and many other types of pain.
There are actually hundreds of nerves in the body that can be stimulated to control pain. Typically, we will first block the affected nerve at the bedside under ultrasound to determine the path of pain.
Because arthritis pain is also transmitted through specific nerves, it can be used to treat certain types of arthritis pain in patients who are not candidates for surgery. This is particularly effective in relieving pain from knee and shoulder arthritis.
Once we identified the neural pathways, we conducted a week-long experimental simulation. In the operating room using X-ray guidance, we pass a thin wire through a needle next to the affected nerve. Once the equipment is tested and working properly, it is securely bolted into place.
You can evaluate peripheral nerve stimulation for up to a week after using an external battery stimulator. During this time, reprogramming may be needed to relieve pain. You will be evaluated after one week, at which time the wire can be easily retracted.
If pain relief is significant by more than 50%, permanent stimulator implantation may be justified. Implants are a small, superficial procedure that involves only two small incisions and involves minimal discomfort during surgery.
With the PNS permanent stimulator, there is no need to replace the battery power supply. However, an external unit needs to be worn to transmit energy to the stimulator line receiver. Special wearable devices are designed to achieve this easily.
To learn more, or to get an assessment for yourself or someone you know, call 352-397-4930 or visit: Pain Relief Institute of America.net.
