Dealing with chronic pain is an exhausting and frustrating process. From dealing with people who suggest the pain is not real to discovering the exact area your pain is coming from, every step requires research, questions, and appointments. If your doctor has mentioned Peripheral Nerve Stimulation, or you are considering talking about it with your doctor, we hope this article will empower you to make the correct decisions in your pursuit of pain relief.
What Is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)?
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is a several stage process that includes:
1) Consultation
Before starting PNS, your doctor will want to be sure that this is the correct treatment for you. They will want to analyze several factors, including your medical history and identifying your specific injury/source of pain.
2) Trial Period
Next, you and your doctor will determine which peripheral nerve area is sending the pain signals. Using an electrode lead, various peripheral nerve points will receive low-frequency stimulus until you experience pain relief. Once the problem area has been located, which can take between a few days to a few weeks, the procedure can be scheduled.
3) Stimulator Implantation
Under general anesthesia, you will receive a permanent electrode in the selected area, and a battery will be connected to the electrodes and inserted under the skin. Your doctor will give you more specific details on placement according to your particular case.
4) Recovery
Typically, patients are discharged from the hospital after two days, and the majority of the recovery process happens in the following 6-8 weeks. You will need to limit physical activity, and your doctor will make regular appointments to check your progress.
How Does PNS Help Relieve Pain?
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation, or PNS, is a surgical procedure that addresses pain at its source: the damaged nerve. The Peripheral Nerve System sends messages between the Central Nervous System and the skin, limbs, and organs. Not only is this a vital supply line of information in the body, but the Peripheral Nerve System also controls the involuntary body functions (breathing, heartbeat, etc.). Some of the areas PNS can specifically help includes the Sacroiliac (SI) Joint, knee, hip, shoulder, and hernia.
Schedule a Consultation at The Pain Center
At The Pain Center in Boise and Caldwell, Id, our pain specialists want to help you on your road to recovery and provide you what you need to make an informed decision about your health care. Contact us today to find out more or to make an appointment.