Electric Stimulation (PNS) for pain relief

For more than 50 years, nerve stimulation has been used as a treatment for chronic pain. The technology was initially used to block pain signals at the spinal cord. Innovation and scientific advancements have made it possible to customize this therapy to the peripheral nerves of the arms and legs.

Are you seeking effective pain relief and management in Duluth or Lawrenceville? Our Interventional Pain Management specialists in Duluth focus on assessing your candidacy for pain treatments without surgery. Through careful evaluation, we discuss potential treatments, risks, and alternatives.

If you've exhausted conservative methods and wish to avoid surgery, we might recommend peripheral nerve stimulation. This involves a three-step process, starting with an image-guided nerve block using local anesthetic to assess temporary pain relief. For a trial, a temporary lead is placed near the affected nerve, delivering pain-blocking stimulation through an external device. The trial  period (lasting 3 - 10 days) helps assess treatment effectiveness. Significant pain relief or improved function during this trial indicates success and potential candidacy for peripheral nerve stimulation.

If successful, permanent lead placement occurs near the nerve, connected to an external power source for pain relief. This non-surgical approach aims to provide enduring relief without an internal battery. If the trial doesn't alleviate pain, permanent placement won't be pursued.

Reported risks of neuromodulation are rare, but include: bleeding, infection, nerve injury, headache. A small percentage of patients may experience: hardware failure, loss of effectiveness, allergic reaction to the device, stimulator removal, and biological complications such as increased pain, dural tear in the epidural space, and skin erosion. Sophisticated neuromodulation devices, doctor expertise, sterile operating conditions and image guidance keep complications to a minimum.

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