What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a neuromodulation technique in which electrodes placed near specific peripheral nerves deliver mild electrical stimulation to modify or block pain signals traveling along the targeted nerve. It is a reversible, adjustable, and non-destructive approach to pain management that preserves nerve integrity while providing significant relief.
PNS can target virtually any accessible peripheral nerve in the body, making it one of the most versatile neuromodulation therapies available for chronic localized pain conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments.
Conditions Treated
- Chronic post-surgical pain
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Occipital neuralgia and chronic migraines
- Post-traumatic nerve pain
- Complex regional pain syndrome (localized)
- Chronic joint pain (knee, shoulder, hip)
- Intercostal neuralgia
How PNS Works
A small electrode is placed near the target peripheral nerve using advanced image guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. The electrode delivers low-level electrical stimulation that modifies pain signal transmission along the nerve, effectively reducing or eliminating the perception of pain in the affected area.
Patients control stimulation intensity via an external programmer, allowing real-time adjustment of parameters for optimal pain relief throughout the day. The stimulation parameters, including frequency, pulse width, and amplitude, can be fine-tuned to each patient's specific needs.
Types of PNS Systems
There are several PNS system options to match different clinical needs:
- Percutaneous PNS: A temporary system designed for use up to 60 days, ideal for acute and subacute pain conditions or as a diagnostic trial before permanent implantation
- Implanted PNS: A permanent system with a rechargeable pulse generator, designed for long-term management of chronic pain conditions
- Wireless PNS: An advanced system that requires no implanted generator, using external power delivery for a smaller profile and simplified implant procedure
The PNS Procedure
The PNS treatment pathway follows a structured approach to ensure optimal outcomes:
- Diagnostic nerve block is performed to confirm the target nerve and predict therapeutic response
- Image-guided electrode placement using ultrasound or fluoroscopy for precision
- Trial stimulation period to assess effectiveness and patient response
- Permanent implantation proceeds if the trial achieves 50% or greater pain improvement
- Outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time, allowing patients to return to daily activities quickly
Benefits of PNS
- Non-destructive and fully reversible — nerve function is preserved
- Minimal side effects compared to long-term medication use
- Can be combined with other pain therapies for multimodal management
- Outpatient procedure with quick recovery and minimal downtime
- Significant and sustained pain reduction demonstrated in clinical studies
- Reduced need for pain medications including opioids, supporting safer long-term pain management
NuRaX PNS Services
NuRaX provides a complete peripheral nerve stimulation program tailored to each patient's unique condition:
- Advanced imaging for precise electrode placement and optimal nerve targeting
- Access to multiple PNS device platforms to match the right technology to each patient
- Individualized treatment planning with multidisciplinary input
- Expert programming and follow-up for long-term therapy optimization
- Global patient coordination for international patients seeking treatment