Peripheral Nerve Stimulators - Melbourne Pain Group

Peripheral Nerve Stimulators overview

Using neuromodulation to manage chronic pain

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a technique used to provide relief from chronic ongoing pain associated with a range of medical conditions. It is a relatively new treatment developed in the late 1990s, based on the field of neuromodulation, which was first used in the 1970s for spinal cord stimulation.

Neuromodulation works by changing the transmission of pain signals in the nerves using small electrical currents delivered through small electrodes.

Research indicates that PNS does not help everyone, but on average pain may be reduced by around 50%, with around 70% of patients reporting decreased pain after having a peripheral nerve stimulator implanted.

Learn More Contact us

Peripheral nerve stimulator indications and preparation

Preparing for peripheral nerve stimulation

Peripheral nerve stimulation may help manage pain associated with:

Neuropathic pain
Occipital neuralgia
Post-surgical pain
Post-traumatic pain
Shingles
Certain forms of back pain
Complex regional pain syndrome

Pain may not always be completely eliminated. However, where pain is substantially reduced, peripheral nerve stimulation may help reduce reliance on pain medication. Peripheral nerve stimulation is often recommended where other treatments, such as nerve blocks or radio-frequency neurotomy, have not helped.

Before the procedure, you will be asked to complete a pain chart and pain diary covering a 7-day period. The pain chart identifies the parts of your body affected by pain, while the diary records your pain levels and any changes each day. You will also complete a short survey describing the type of pain you experience.

You should also:

Avoid other medical procedures, such as dental treatment or a colonoscopy, within 48 hours before or after the procedure.
Not eat, drink or smoke during the 6 hours immediately before the procedure. Regular medication may be taken with small sips of water.
Not take diabetes medication until after the procedure.
Not drive yourself to or from the appointment.
Stop medication containing aspirin or other blood thinning medication at least 11 days before the procedure.

Please let us know ahead of the procedure if:

You have any allergies.
You have high blood pressure.
You have or have previously had bleeding or blood clotting issues, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary emboli.
You are taking any antibiotics.
You have a pacemaker or defibrillator.

You are ill, in which case we may need to postpone the procedure.

Request an appointment Contact us

Peripheral nerve stimulator procedure

What to expect during your procedure

Peripheral nerve stimulation is completed in two stages, beginning with a temporary trial before progressing to permanent implantation where suitable.

1. Temporary electrode placement

Electrodes are implanted along the target nerves, with the connecting wires remaining exposed above the skin.

2. Trial stimulation period

The electrodes are connected to a portable stimulation device for around 10 days to assess how effectively the treatment reduces pain.

3. Assessing pain reduction

If the trial produces a marked reduction in pain levels, you may proceed to the second stage.

4. Permanent stimulator implantation

A miniature stimulator with a battery is permanently implanted under the skin, generally in the chest, back or abdominal area.

5. Battery and ongoing use

The battery can be recharged without removing the device and may last around 5-15 years, depending on the stimulator settings.

After your peripheral nerve stimulator procedure

Recovery and monitoring after the procedure

After both stages there will be some pain at the insertion site for around 48 hours. During this time you should not lift anything, and not stretch, twist or bend over further than 45 degrees. The dressing on the incision must be kept dry (i.e. no showers of baths) and you will be checked frequently for any signs of infection at the insertion site.

Where stage one does not result in marked pain reduction, the electrodes will be removed in a short procedure.

Peripheral nerve stimulator risks

Possible complications to be aware of

If you experience severe pain or weakness, swelling or infection at the incision site, or a temperature above 38°C, contact us urgently or attend the nearest emergency department. Possible complications may include: