Diabetes is a leading cause of neuropathy in the United States, although there are many other causes. While some neuropathy cases can be easily treated and sometimes cured, treatment aims to control and manage symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Among neuromodulation procedures, the peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS) procedure is the most underappreciated modality. Although PNS is used for all kinds of medical conditions, ranging from neuropathic pain and chronic headaches to epilepsy, depression, and hypertension, its importance is frequently overshadowed.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) Procedure
For patients who are suffering from diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage (neuropathy), complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or any nerve entrapment syndrome (also known as nerve compression syndrome) of the arms, hands, legs, or feet, we often recommend the PNS procedure (also called peripheral nerve field stimulation), via the following devices:
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- Introducing an electrical current to the source of your chronic pain.
- Delivering low-level electrical impulses to control pain through a peripheral nerve stimulator.
- Having a peripheral nerve stimulator lead and an electrode placed along the peripheral nerve path under anesthetic.
- Blocking one or more of the nerves, which transmit most of the pain, prevents the perception of pain from traveling to your brain.
PNS Benefits
The peripheral nerve stimulator procedure can be very effective in reducing chronic pain from certain conditions. Typically, PNS procedures are performed on an outpatient basis – and complications are rare. The intensity of the stimulator can be changed to provide optimal pain relief. In two clinical studies, patients treated with the peripheral nerve stimulator experienced clinically and statistically significant improvement in back pain and reduced their pain medication intake.
Why Choose PMIR Medical Center?
At PMIR Medical Center, our team of medically trained pain management specialists understands your pain and the most effective way to treat it. We use standards of excellence, state-of-the-art equipment, and innovative procedures to develop customized integrative treatment plans to help you achieve long-term, sustainable pain relief. To learn more about how we can help you return to a pain-free, productive lifestyle, schedule an appointment with a PMIR physician today.
