Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting mobility, sleep, energy, and every aspect of life. More than 40 million Americans live with severe pain, and nearly 20 million experience pain so persistent that it regularly prevents daily and work activities. If chronic nerve pain impacts your day through leg or joint pain, peripheral nerve stimulation could be the solution that lets you reclaim comfort and restore your quality of life.
The Benefits of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Imagine being able to move through your day with less pain, more freedom, and fewer pills to worry about. That’s what peripheral nerve stimulation can bring to people living with chronic pain.
By calming the nerves that send pain signals, peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) often makes walking, sleeping, and everyday routines feel easier again. Many patients notice they no longer need as much medication, which means fewer side effects and a clearer mind.
For many, treatment isn’t just pain relief—it’s getting control back. Because the procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and recovery is typically quick, you can get back to life sooner.
What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
The PNS system we use at APEX Vascular is a minimally invasive treatment option used to manage chronic pain that originates from peripheral nerves. These nerves can send abnormal signals to the brain when damaged or irritated, resulting in constant pain even without a current injury.
PNS works by delivering mild electrical impulses to disrupt these pain signals, helping reduce discomfort and improve quality of life. The therapy typically involves a small implanted stimulator and an external controller.
As an alternative for patients who have not found relief with medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments, peripheral nerve stimulation offers a promising advancement in pain management.
Who Benefits from Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
Living with chronic pain can make even the simplest daily activities difficult. Pain in the knees, feet, or ankles doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can interfere with:
- Walking
- Getting restful sleep
- Keeping up with daily responsibilities
Over time, this constant struggle can take away your independence and limit the things you enjoy. Peripheral nerve stimulation offers a way to target the nerves responsible for sending pain signals, helping many people find meaningful relief. By easing pain at its source, PNS helps to restore comfort and improve your ability to stay active and engaged in life.
How Does Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Work?
Peripheral nerve stimulation works by delivering targeted, programmable electrical pulses to specific peripheral nerves. This effectively disrupts pain signals before they reach the brain.
PNS provides pain relief by delivering customizable electrical impulses targeted to your specific pain patterns. Systems generally include a small implanted stimulator and an external controller, which is discreet and comfortable to wear. They’re also compatible with certain MRI scans, offering convenience and safety.
Qualifying for PNS Treatment
Candidates for peripheral nerve stimulation are typically adults who experience chronic pain. This pain originates from peripheral nerves that have not improved with conservative treatments.
Common candidates include those suffering from:
- Post-surgical pain syndromes
- Traumatic nerve injuries or entrapments
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Pain flare-ups from old injuries
- Other unsuccessful pain interventions
A consultation will determine if you meet these criteria and qualify for treatment.
What to Expect During the Procedure and Recovery
The peripheral nerve stimulation procedure involves two steps. First, a trial period is 5 to 7 days, featuring a temporary implant to evaluate how effective the pain relief is. If successful, a permanent implant is placed.
Both procedures:
- Are outpatient
- Require minimal downtime and
- Are performed under local anesthesia or light sedation
Anesthesia or sedation is performed by trained medical staff at APEX Vascular when implanting the PNS device.
Recovery typically takes just days to a week, allowing you to return swiftly to daily activities. Follow-up visits ensure therapy is fine-tuned for optimal pain relief and device function.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief
Don’t let chronic nerve pain control your life and take the first step toward lasting relief. Talk with APEX Vascular to see if PNS is right for you and start reclaiming your mobility, comfort, and independence.
Find out if you qualify for the peripheral nerve stimulation or call APEX Vascular at 865-562-3232 for more information.
