Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a chronic pain treatment that first emerged in the early 1960s. Offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, it can provide significant relief in cases of peripheral nerve pain that have been unresponsive to other pain management strategies.

Peripheral nerves are the nerves in the human body that exist outside of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). A network of peripheral nerves extends to the organs and extremities (arms, legs, hands, feet) and is responsible for transmitting messages to and from the brain. When a peripheral nerve is injured, damaged, or otherwise compromised, it transmits pain signals directly to the brain in the form of electrical impulses. PNS can interrupt these pain signals, offering pain relief and the potential for improved function in the affected area of the body.

During a peripheral nerve stimulation procedure, one or more tiny wire electrodes (peripheral nerve stimulators) are implanted along the path of the affected peripheral nerve(s). By emitting weak electrical impulses, the electrodes interrupt pain signals en route to the brain and change the way the brain perceives pain. As a result, many patients experience a significant improvement in their symptoms.

Conditions Treated

Peripheral nerve stimulation is a treatment option that may be used to address a wide range of chronic pain conditions. At Resolve Pain and Spine, we often recommend this treatment for:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Knee pain
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Sciatica
• Complex regional pain syndrome

The doctors at Resolve are dedicated to uncovering the underlying cause of your chronic pain and tailoring the most effective treatment plan to restore your comfort, strength, and mobility. Contact us directly to schedule an appointment and learn more about peripheral nerve stimulation!

What To Expect From Treatment

Before implanting one or more peripheral nerve stimulators, your Resolve doctor will first perform a trial to determine whether or not PNS may offer effective pain relief for your particular situation. During the trial, leads will be attached to the targeted peripheral nerve(s) but connected to an external device. If you experience significant pain reduction during the trial period, the next step will be a PNS implantation procedure.

Before your PNS procedure, it is crucial to let your Resolve doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and disclose all medications you are currently taking, including blood thinners. You will be provided with clear instructions to follow in preparation for the procedure and the team at Resolve Pain and Spine will be available to respond to any questions or concerns you may have.

On the day of your procedure, you’ll be given IV sedation and local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Your doctor will precisely implant one or more electrodes in the span of 30-60 minutes and, after a brief recovery period, you’ll be ready to go home.

Recovery

Recovery after receiving PNS implants can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the exact location and scope of the procedure. Most patients can return to work within a week but may need to avoid activities such as swimming and strenuous exercise for longer. Speak directly with your Resolve doctor for specifics based on your particular case.

Research has shown that about two-thirds of patients who undergo PNS treatment may experience significant pain reduction that can last for 12-24 months, or even longer in some cases. It should be noted that some patients experience a tingling feeling when the affected nerve is being stimulated. The stimulation parameters of the electrode(s) can be adjusted by the patient to achieve optimal pain management outcomes.

Why Choose Resolve Pain And Spine?

Resolve Pain and Spine is a state-of-the-art clinic that takes a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to pain management. We draw on integrative, functional, and regenerative medicine therapies in addition to interventional techniques and are committed to uncovering hidden causes of chronic pain.

If you live with chronic nerve pain and are seeking a team that will truly take the time to understand your symptoms and develop an innovative and personalized treatment plan, you’ve found it at Resolve.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

Are you ready to address chronic nerve pain once and for all with peripheral nerve stimulation and/or other cutting-edge treatments? So is the expert team of doctors at Resolve Pain and Spine in West Orange, New Jersey. Schedule an initial consultation today!