Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Treatment
In Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses electrical impulses to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. At Pain and Spine Specialists, we offer PNS treatment to help manage various symptoms of chronic pain, including persistent back or neck pain, severe headaches, joint discomfort, and nerve-related pain conditions.
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Treatment overview and more!
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Treatment of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain affects millions worldwide and can have debilitating effects on your quality of life. Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is an innovative therapy that has been used since the mid-1980s to provide long-term relief by blocking pain signals and reducing their intensity.
With PNS treatment, you get more control over pain so that you can return to a more active and functional life. If you're dealing with chronic pain or nerve-related issues, our board-certified pain specialists at Pain and Spine Specialists can help determine if the peripheral nerve stimulation procedure is the right option for you. Learn more about the procedure, candidates, recovery time, and frequently asked questions using the resource buttons below.
If you are ready to schedule a new patient consultation, submit a contact form through our website or call our offices here.
What Patients Are Saying
Great office, good people. Been there quite a few years. Never a problem. Leave them a message, they always respond. I've had six back surgeries 2knees and right shoulder. Gregg keeps my chronic debilitating pain managed well so I can still live my life best I can. Im so grateful.
Jenny Martins / google review
Dr. Rao. I can't find the words to tell you how much he has meant to me. I followed him from an old practice to his very new high tech office. They offer so many different areas of assistance to those with issues from nutrition to spinal surgery... and much more. His office is professional.
Mom To2 / vitals
Dr. Rao is such an amazing doctor! During my first visit, he never tried to rush through my appt.; he genuinely listened to all my concerns and then took his time to explain to me in detail all his recommendations and how they would help me.
Nikki / healthgrades
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Treatment Guide
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Digital Guide
Get a thorough understanding of the peripheral nerve stimulation procedure, its side effects, the recovery process, and answers to all your frequently asked questions with our comprehensive guide.
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Access to our Peripheral Nerve Stimulation guide, pain quiz, FAQ's, and patient reviews.
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What Are the Peripheral Nerves?
The peripheral nervous system is a network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, also known as your central nervous system. The nerves in the peripheral nervous system branch out from the brain and spinal cord into all other parts of the body, including your muscles and organs.
The two systems, the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system work together by sending information throughout the body via the nerves of the peripheral system so that these areas can react to stimuli.
The peripheral nervous system is divided into the somatic and autonomic nervous systems. The somatic nervous system includes the sensory nervous system. It transmits signals from the different senses, such as taste and touch. The autonomic nervous system pertains to involuntary functions and organs, such as breathing and heart rate.
The peripheral nerves are more susceptible to injury since they are not protected by the spinal column and skull like the central nervous system is. When the peripheral nerves are damaged, it can lead to what is known as peripheral neuropathy. If you have been diagnosed with neuropathy, a nerve stimulator for peripheral nerve blocks can help.
What Is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)?
Peripheral nerve stimulation is a chronic pain treatment used when other first-line pain management treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and nerve blocks, have not worked. It is a standard procedure and is considered to be very safe. There is no added risk of dependency forming that a patient may experience with opioid medications, which are often prescribed for pain. PNS is an outpatient procedure designed to help reduce pain, specifically from damaged peripheral nerves.
The procedure uses a small electrical device called a peripheral nerve stimulator implant. Our pain management doctors will identify which peripheral nerves have been damaged. The device will be implanted next to the nerve to "stimulate" it and keep pain signals from traveling along the nerve and into the brain. The electrical device acts similarly to a pacemaker. It delivers a series of fast electrical impulses to the nerve or multiple nerves. The patient will feel nothing more than a tingling sensation.
After the device is implanted, patients can control the amount of stimulation by turning it off and on or adjusting the levels of stimulation with a small remote control. With this implant, patients are often able to regain control of their symptoms and take back their life from their pain.
Our Partners at Naluâ„¢ Neurostimulation Systems
We partnered with Naluâ„¢ to offer our patients the most advanced peripheral nerve stimulation treatments available. Nalu has been repeatedly recognized for its revolutionary technology and innovation, including being named one of the top 100 new products in the world by R&D Magazine.
Check out this video outlining their revolutionary PNS Technology:
Candidates for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
PNS is a technique used to manage pain conditions of the neuralgic type, but it can help treat pain from other chronic conditions.
Additional conditions improved by peripheral nerve stimulation include:
Getting Started with FDA-Approved Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
The process of initiating peripheral nerve stimulation therapy starts with an initial consultation, where our team of pain specialists will conduct a thorough review designed to accurately diagnose your pain condition before recommending peripheral nerve block stimulator.
An overview of the process looks like:
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review of your medical history
We start with a thorough review of your medical history. Understanding your past health experiences provides invaluable insights that guide our diagnosis and treatment recommendations. We want to know about any previous surgeries, treatments, medications, and existing conditions that could be linked to your current pain.
physical examination
Next, we conduct a physical examination. Our skilled doctors will assess your mobility, strength, and reflexes to find areas of tenderness or discomfort. This hands-on approach helps us to identify any physical abnormalities that could be contributing to your pain.
Advanced Imaging
Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in our consultation process. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans, we can visualize the structures inside your body. These images allow us to detect problems like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression that might not be apparent from a physical examination alone.
Nerve Test and Diagnostic Injections
In some cases, nerve tests may be necessary. These tests evaluate the electrical activity in your nerves, helping to pinpoint any damage or dysfunction that could be causing your pain. Finally, if applicable to your situation, we may employ diagnostic nerve blocks. Procedures like facet joint injections, epidural steroid injections, SI injections, or medial branch blocks can help us determine the exact source of your pain by temporarily blocking pain signals from specific nerves.
Learn More With Dr. Sudhir Rao (Medical Director Of Pain and Spine Specialists)
In this webinar, Dr. Rao discusses PNS electrical stimulation for peripheral nerve injury and other chronic pain conditions:
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Trial
Once a patient decides to proceed with the procedure, they must follow certain steps first. The initial part of the process requires the patient to complete a psychological evaluation to ensure that they are emotionally ready to go through with the procedure, as elevated stress and anxiety levels can reduce the effectiveness of the peripheral nerve stimulator implant.
When the patient has completed the psychological evaluation and been deemed a good fit for the procedure, they will then move on to a trial run to gauge their response before the device is permanently implanted. The doctor will put the temporary peripheral nerve stimulator in the correct position using fluoroscopy, which creates a real-time video of the movements inside the body using X-ray technology.
The temporary peripheral stimulator implant involves one or two electrodes placed along the damaged peripheral nerve. This process is done as an outpatient procedure, so the patient may leave the doctor's office on the same day. The trial will take place for around three to five days, allowing the patient to see if their pain and other symptoms subside and if they want to continue to the next phase. When the trial ends, the temporary electrodes are removed.
The Peripheral Nerve Stimulator Implant Procedure
After the trial period has been completed, the patient will be able to have the PNS device permanently implanted. An implantable peripheral nerve stimulator requires a minimally invasive procedure.
Before the procedure begins, the patient will be taken to the operating room to be prepped by an attendant. The patient will also be able to ask any additional questions they may have. This prep time will involve cleaning the area of the back, in the exact location where the device will be inserted, with alcohol or another antiseptic solution. Local anesthesia will then be administered to numb the area. Medication may also be given through an intravenous line (IV) to relax the patient if needed.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulator Placement
While the patient is lying face down on the operating table, the surgeon will make a small incision. The targeted nerve will be identified, and a small needle will be used to insert the PNS implant device under the skin. The peripheral nerve stimulator implant includes permanent electrodes with extension wires plugged into an internal pulse generator called a battery. When the stimulator is in place, the electrical pulse settings are adjusted to relieve pain as quickly as possible. They can continue to be adjusted later on to the level the patient needs. The entire procedure should be completed around an hour or less.
Afterward, the patient will be discharged and may resume light daily activities after a few weeks, with a full recovery after six to eight weeks. Even with restricted movement, the patient is encouraged to move enough to keep the muscles from becoming stiff but avoid excessive bending or twisting. Also, they should avoid lifting heavy objects until the area is completely healed. The doctor will discuss what the patient should and should not do before they are discharged.
Success Stories of Peripheral Nerve Stimulators
At Pain and Spine Specialists, we believe in the transformative power of peripheral nerve stimulation in managing chronic pain.
Some examples of successful cases that highlight the potential of PNS treatment are:
Post-Surgical Pain Management
A review of techniques and studies showed that PNS has successfully treated acute post-surgical pain following orthopedic procedures. This is a promising development in pain management, potentially reducing dependency on opioids for post-surgical pain.
Significant Pain Reduction
In one case, patients reported a 27.2% reduction in pain at three months, compared to only 2.3% in the control group. Such significant pain reduction can dramatically improve a patient's quality of life.
Long-Term Effects
A study from Keck School of Medicine showed promising results in chronic pain reduction. Participants connected the device for a month-long treatment period, and even a year after its removal, they reported sustained pain relief.
Wide Range of Pain Conditions
A PNS stimulator has been successfully used to treat a wide range of pain conditions, including intractable neuropathic pain. This versatility makes it a valuable tool in our comprehensive approach to pain management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore some of the most common questions we receive about Peripheral Nerve Stimulation treatment at Pain and Spine Specialists.
The average recovery time for PNS treatment is 6-8 weeks. However, you may be able to resume light activities after a few weeks, depending on your individual condition.
No, there is no risk of addiction associated with PNS as it does not involve taking opioid medications or other substances that can lead to dependency.
Most devices are designed to last at least 5 years before needing replacement. However, this varies depending on how frequently and intensely it is used over time. Your doctor can provide more information about expected longevity for your particular device.
Yes! It’s important that you take certain steps in order to ensure successful results from the procedure such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous movements until the area has fully healed and reducing stress and anxiety levels prior to undergoing surgery.
No, the procedure involves administering local anaesthesia and intravenous medication to ensure that the patient is comfortable during the entire process.
Yes, PNS has been shown to be effective in reducing back pain associated with damaged peripheral nerves.
The cost of a PNS implant varies depending on your insurance coverage and other factors. It is best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for an accurate estimation of costs associated with this procedure.
Yes, Medicare typically covers procedures such as PNS if it's deemed medically necessary by a physician.
peripheral nerve stimulator Treatment in Maryland, Florida Pennsylvania and Virginia
Living with chronic pain can be a challenging and discouraging experience. Peripheral nerve stimulation has been shown to manage pain effectively in multiple clinical trials and studies. These studies have demonstrated successful outcomes and positive patient feedback.
At Pain and Spine Specialists, our doctors will be available to provide support and guidance throughout the treatment process, helping you to make informed decisions about your health.
If you would like more information about the benefits of peripheral nerve stimulation or other pain management therapies we offer, please call us or submit a contact form below to speak with one of our dedicated team of specialists. During your appointment, we'll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments you've tried. If PNS is suitable for your condition, we'll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you're comfortable and informed.
About Us
At Pain and Spine Specialists, we specialize in comprehensive pain management, including Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for treatment. We have board-certified doctors and advanced therapies that place your well-being and quality of life as a priority.
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More Resources
Here is a list of resources that were discussed on this page:
Treatment Candidates
Patients with the following conditions may be candidates for an Peripheral Nerve Stimulation:
Related Pain Regions
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is often used to treat pain in the following regions:
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Appointment FAQ's
We Accept All Insurances!
That includes Medicare and state Medicaid.
Usually within one week of the initial call.
Appointments can be schedule by phone or through our contact form here.
At Pain and Spine Specialists we provide comprehensive pain care while offering the most up-to-date minimally invasive techniques. Our ethos is to treat each patient (and potential patient) as if they were a family member.
At Pain and Spine Specialists we want to provide the most efficient and pleasurable experience possible. As in all medical facilities, we have certain policies in place to ensure that you receive the time you require to address your needs as well as enhance your experience while in our care.
We encourage patient feedback to better improve your experience. We strive to create a friendly and warm environment where patients feel their voices are heard and validated.
Meet Our Team
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Specialists in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
At Pain and Spine Specialists, our team of peripheral nerve stimulation specialists and nurse practitioners are committed to delivering exceptional care to our patients. Our peripheral nerve stimulator doctors have over 20 years of experience in pain management.
We understand that pain can significantly impact your quality of life, which is why we provide effective, minimally invasive treatment options to patients in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia. Our team of physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners work together to develop personalized treatment plans to accurately diagnose your condition and treat the root cause of your pain.
