Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) has become a widely used and efficient alternative for the management of chronic pain that is unresponsive to first line conservative therapies. Peripheral nerve stimulation works by masking pain signals before they reach the brain. Peripheral nerve stimulation is a technique in which a small device, or electrode, is implanted next to the peripheral nerves to interrupt pain signals to reduce chronic pain. Caliber Pain™ offers peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) as one of our treatments for chronic pain at our medical facility in New York City.

The stimulation device delivers weak electric pulses to electrodes that are placed along the course of the peripheral nerves. The pulses modify pain signals so they are either not perceived or are experienced as a tingling feeling. Some patients do not tolerate this tingling sensation well, so generally, a trial stimulation is performed before a permanent device is implanted. Recent improvements in neuromodulation technology have been successfully addressing this issue.

Today’s peripheral nerve stimulators allow patients to send electrical impulses along the peripheral nerves using a small device like a remote control. Both the remote control and its antenna are outside the body.

Is PNS Right for You?

Peripheral nerve stimulation has become a widely accepted form of therapy for chronic intractable neuropathic pain. However, stimulation does not work for everyone. PNS candidates usually have had chronic debilitating pain for more than three months and have had one or more spinal surgeries. If unsuccessful, the implant can be removed and does not damage the peripheral nerves.
Candidates for PNS:

• Conservative therapies have failed.
• You would not benefit from additional surgery.
• You do not want further surgery.
• You have no medical conditions that contraindicate treatment.
• You have had a successful PNS trial.

If other conservative treatments are no longer effective in controlling pain, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) may be an option. Contact Caliber Pain™ in Midtown Manhattan to schedule a consultation to discuss PNS and other pain management options.