Chronic pain, or pain that lasts for a few months or longer, affects around 25% of adults in the United States. As pain lingers, it can make going about your daily life difficult.
When other chronic pain treatments, like rest, medication, and physical therapy, don’t suffice, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) provides a valuable option.
Our expert team at Houston Pain Specialists, led by board-certified pain management specialist Hui Kang, MD, uses the state-of-the-art Nalu Medical device for PNS, which is known for its compact size and advanced technology.
Here’s a closer look at peripheral nerve stimulation, including what to expect during and after your procedure.
Peripheral nerve stimulation starts with a surgery to implant an electrode near one of your peripheral nerves. The electrode sends mild electrical pulses to specific nerves to disrupt pain signals to your brain. When your brain doesn’t fully register pain, you feel less of it.
At Houston Pain Specialists, we use PNS to treat chronic pain from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuropathic pain, surgeries, joint issues, and more.
After a successful trial period, in which you use PNS without implantation of the electrode, you can proceed to the implantation procedure. During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Kang makes a small incision near the pain source, guiding with imaging technology, and placing the electrode beneath your skin.
Local anesthesia prevents pain and discomfort during the procedure. In most cases, we perform PNS implantation on an outpatient basis, so you can return home shortly afterward. Still, plan to have someone drive you home.
Once you’re home, follow your aftercare instructions, such as not immersing the treatment area in water and avoiding intense exercise until otherwise directed.
Many of our patients appreciate that PNS provides a drug-free and versatile pain management option that works quickly. Once the PNS device is in place, you can start experiencing pain relief. With a handheld device, you control how much stimulation and pain control you receive.
While individual results vary, one study showed that peripheral nerve stimulation reduces pain by 63%, on average. With less pain, you can expect better moods and sleep, an easier time exercising, and an overall better quality of life.
You may find that PNS suffices for your pain management on its own. The treatment can also pair well with other options, such as physical therapy, cold or warm compresses, and over-the-counter pain medication.
To learn more about PNS or get personalized care for your chronic pain, contact our Houston, Texas, office today to schedule an appointment.
