Name: Peripheral Nerve Stimulation in Phoenix, AZ
Brand: Atlas Pain Specialists
SKU: Atlas Pain Specialists
Rating: 4,9 (135 reviews)

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

In Phoenix Arizona

Atlas Pain Specialists offers peripheral nerve stimulation in Phoenix, AZ as a minimally invasive treatment for patients with chronic or neuropathic pain. This therapy targets specific peripheral nerves to modulate pain signals, aiming to reduce discomfort and enhance overall function and quality of life.

What is Peripheral Nerve Simulation?

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is an advanced pain management therapy that uses mild electrical pulses to modulate pain signals at the source—the peripheral nerves. Unlike spinal cord stimulation, which targets pain by stimulating the spinal cord, PNS works directly on specific nerves outside the central nervous system. By interfering with pain transmission before it reaches the brain, PNS offers long-term relief for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments.

This minimally invasive procedure is particularly effective for neuropathic pain, post-surgical pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and even certain types of musculoskeletal pain. Patients who undergo PNS treatment often experience significant pain reduction, improved mobility, and a reduced need for pain medications. Since the device is adjustable and reversible, PNS provides a safe and flexible pain management solution tailored to each individual’s needs.

Benefits
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

Effective Pain Relief

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is designed to directly interfere with pain signals at the nerve level, providing targeted relief without the need for systemic medications. Many patients experience a 50% or greater reduction in pain, significantly improving their daily comfort. Unlike medications, which only mask pain, PNS modifies how the nervous system processes pain, offering a long-term solution. By treating pain at its source, patients can engage in daily activities with less discomfort and greater independence.

Minimally Invasive Procedure

Unlike traditional open surgeries, which require large incisions and lengthy recoveries, PNS is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. The device is implanted through a small incision near the affected nerve, reducing tissue damage, scarring, and post-procedure pain. Most patients return home the same day and can resume light activities within a few days. Since PNS doesn’t require major spinal surgery or structural changes, it presents fewer risks and complications, making it a safe and effective alternative to surgery for chronic pain relief.

Reduced Dependence on Medications

Many individuals with chronic pain rely heavily on opioids or other medications for relief, which can lead to tolerance, dependence, and serious side effects. PNS provides an alternative by modulating pain at the nerve level, allowing patients to reduce or eliminate their need for medications. This not only minimizes the risk of addiction and overdose but also eliminates common side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and cognitive impairment. With PNS, patients can enjoy more consistent pain relief without the complications of long-term medication use.

Customizable & Adjustable Therapy

One of the greatest advantages of PNS is its ability to be adjusted in real time. Pain levels can fluctuate throughout the day, depending on activity levels, weather, and other factors. With PNS, patients can fine-tune the stimulation settings to meet their needs at any given moment. Some systems also have automatic adaptive settings that respond to movement, ensuring continuous pain relief without constant manual adjustments. This personalized approach to pain management ensures that each patient receives optimal relief tailored to their specific condition.

Reversible & Low-Risk Treatment

PNS is a fully reversible treatment, making it an excellent option for those hesitant to undergo permanent procedures. If the therapy is ineffective or no longer needed, the device can be easily removed without causing permanent changes to the nerves or surrounding tissues. Additionally, if pain levels change over time, the stimulation settings can be reprogrammed to maintain effective relief. Compared to irreversible surgeries, PNS offers a lower-risk solution that can be adjusted or discontinued as needed, providing greater flexibility in pain management.

Improved Quality of Life

Chronic pain can severely impact a person’s ability to work, sleep, and engage in daily activities, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. By providing consistent pain relief, PNS allows patients to regain mobility, improve their sleep quality, and return to the activities they once enjoyed. Many patients report feeling more in control of their lives, with reduced stress and an overall improvement in mental and physical well-being. With PNS, individuals can live more comfortably and actively, enhancing their long-term quality of life.

Conditions Treated with Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

PNS is used to treat a variety of chronic pain conditions, particularly those involving nerve damage or persistent post-surgical pain. Common conditions treated with PNS include:

Neuropathic Pain – Pain caused by nerve damage, diabetes, trauma, or other medical conditions.

Post-Surgical Pain – Persistent pain after surgeries such as hernia repair, knee replacements, or mastectomies.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – A painful nerve disorder that affects the limbs.

Peripheral Neuropathy – Nerve pain due to diabetes, chemotherapy, or injury.

Lower Back & Sciatic Pain – Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve or originates from a compressed nerve in the lower back.

Occipital Neuralgia – Chronic headaches caused by irritation of the occipital nerves in the neck.

Purpose of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

The primary purpose of PNS is to interrupt the transmission of pain signals at the nerve level, preventing them from reaching the brain. Unlike medications that mask pain temporarily, PNS provides continuous relief by directly modulating nerve activity. This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief with medications, injections, or physical therapy.

By targeting specific nerves rather than affecting the entire nervous system, PNS minimizes side effects while delivering long-lasting pain control. The ability to adjust stimulation levels gives patients greater control over their pain, making it a customizable and adaptable treatment for those dealing with chronic discomfort.

Limitations of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

While PNS is highly effective for many types of nerve-related pain, it is not suitable for all pain conditions. The treatment works best for neuropathic pain, meaning it may be less effective for muscle, joint, or inflammatory pain. Patients with widespread pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, may not experience the same level of relief as those with localized nerve pain.

Additionally, PNS requires a trial period to determine if the therapy is effective before permanent implantation. Not all patients respond to stimulation, and some may require adjustments to find the best settings. Battery maintenance and device adjustments are also necessary over time, making it an ongoing therapy rather than a one-time solution.

Potential Risks of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

Although PNS is considered a low-risk procedure, there are some potential complications:

Infection – As with any implanted device, there is a small risk of infection at the surgical site.
Device Malfunction – The leads or battery pack may require replacement if they stop functioning properly.
Lead Migration – The electrode may shift slightly, causing changes in stimulation patterns or reduced effectiveness.
Nerve Irritation – Some patients may experience tingling, burning, or discomfort from overstimulation.
Allergic Reaction – Though rare, some individuals may react to the implanted materials.

Most risks are minor and manageable, with adjustments or minor corrective procedures if necessary.

The Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Process

PNS involves a two-step approach: a trial phase and permanent implantation.

Trial Phase – A temporary electrode is placed near the affected nerve, and the patient wears an external stimulator for about a week to determine if PNS provides significant pain relief.
Evaluation – If the trial is successful (at least 50% pain reduction), the patient moves forward with permanent implantation.
Permanent Implantation – A small pulse generator is implanted under the skin, and the electrode leads are permanently placed near the target nerve.
Device Programming – The stimulation settings are adjusted based on the patient’s comfort and pain levels.
Recovery & Follow-Up – Patients typically return to normal activities within a few days, with ongoing adjustments to optimize effectiveness.

Types of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Devices

There are different types of PNS devices available, depending on the patient’s specific needs:

Traditional PNS Systems – Use continuous stimulation to block pain signals. These systems are rechargeable or battery-powered and can be adjusted as needed.
Burst Stimulation PNS – Delivers pulsed bursts of electrical stimulation, mimicking natural nerve activity and often providing pain relief without a tingling sensation.
Wireless & Miniature PNS Devices – Advanced wireless systems eliminate the need for large implants, offering a less invasive option with better cosmetic appeal.
Temporary PNS Systems – Short-term systems used for acute post-surgical or injury-related pain, typically lasting 60 days before being removed.

Each system is designed to meet different pain management needs, allowing for personalized treatment options that align with a patient’s lifestyle and condition.

Types of Vertebral Compression Fractures Treated with Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is most effective for acute or subacute compression fractures, meaning fractures that are relatively recent and still causing pain. Some of the common types include:

Wedge fractures: The front of the vertebra collapses, creating a wedge-like shape and leading to kyphosis (hunchback posture).
Biconcave fractures: The middle of the vertebra collapses, causing the bone to become concave in appearance.
Crush fractures: The entire vertebra collapses uniformly, which can lead to severe instability.

The type and severity of the fracture determine whether kyphoplasty or another treatment approach is best.