Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)
A minimally invasive neuromodulation therapy that delivers targeted electrical impulses directly to a specific peripheral nerve — providing focused relief for patients with localized, difficult-to-treat nerve pain.
Who This May Help
PNS may be an option if you have persistent pain concentrated along a specific nerve — such as pain following surgery or traumatic nerve injury, occipital neuralgia, genicular nerve pain causing chronic knee pain, or intercostal nerve pain in the chest wall. It is typically considered when other treatments including medications, nerve blocks, and physical therapy have not provided adequate or lasting relief.
A consultation with our clinical team will determine whether you are a candidate.
How Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Works
Peripheral nerve stimulation delivers gentle electrical impulses directly to a targeted nerve outside the spinal cord, disrupting the transmission of pain signals before they reach the brain. Because the therapy targets a specific nerve, it can provide highly focused relief for pain that is localized to one area of the body — an advantage over broader therapies when the source of pain is clearly defined.
The process begins with a trial period. During the trial, a thin lead is placed near the target nerve via needle — no incision is required. The lead is connected to an external device that the patient wears for a period of approximately one to four weeks, allowing a thorough evaluation of the therapy during normal daily life. If the trial produces meaningful improvement, the permanent system is then placed as a same-day outpatient procedure. Patients go home the same day.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Both the trial and the permanent implant are well-tolerated procedures with minimal downtime. Most patients are able to return to light daily activities within a day or two. Some soreness at the lead placement site is normal and typically resolves quickly.
Because PNS targets a specific nerve with precision, patients who respond to the trial often experience meaningful, sustained relief following permanent implant. Settings can be adjusted over time by our clinical team to optimize the therapy as your needs change. Regular follow-up is part of ongoing care with any implanted stimulation system.
Schedule a Consultation
A consultation is the right starting point. Our clinical team will review your history and determine the most appropriate path forward.