Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) in Dallas

What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small device to deliver electrical impulses directly to a peripheral nerve, helping to reduce chronic pain. The electrical signals interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain, providing relief for conditions that affect specific nerves. The device is typically implanted near the targeted nerve, allowing patients to adjust the stimulation as needed for a more effective pain management.

How Does PNS Work?

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) works by delivering electrical impulses directly to specific peripheral nerves, changing their activity to reduce pain. A small device, often implanted under the skin, connects to electrodes placed near the targeted nerve. These electrodes generate mild electrical signals that interfere with the pain signals being sent to the brain. The electrical impulses alter the perception of pain, creating a tingling or massaging sensation instead. This helps reduce chronic pain without relying on high doses of medication.

The mechanism behind PNS relies on the gate control theory of pain, which suggests that non-painful input, like electrical stimulation, can block the transmission of painful signals. This makes PNS especially effective for conditions like post-surgical pain, neuropathy, or pain following nerve injury. It is often used as a less invasive alternative to more complex surgical options.

Who Can Benefit from Peripheral Nerve Stimulator?

Here’s who can benefit from a peripheral nerve stimulator:

Chronic Pain Patients. Those dealing with long-term pain conditions like nerve damage or neuropathy can find relief through a peripheral nerve stimulator implant, as it directly targets the painful nerves, reducing the need for high-dose medications.
Post-Surgical Pain. Individuals experiencing persistent pain after surgeries, such as joint replacements or nerve repair, can benefit from this implant.
Back and Neck Pain. People with localized pain from conditions like failed back surgery syndrome or cervical radiculopathy can use a peripheral nerve stimulator to manage discomfort without more invasive spinal procedures.
Nerve Injury. If you’ve had a traumatic injury leading to nerve pain, the peripheral nerve stimulator procedure can provide relief.
Migraines or Headaches. For chronic migraine sufferers who haven’t found relief through medications, peripheral nerve stimulation offers a non-drug option to manage symptoms and reduce headache frequency.

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Procedure Details

The peripheral nerve stimulator procedure typically works like this:

Preparation. At the pain management clinic, the doctor will use imaging, like X-rays, to guide the placement of a small electrode near the targeted nerve. Local peripheral nerve stimulator anesthesia is applied to numb the area, and mild sedation may be provided to keep you relaxed.
Placement. A thin wire, no wider than a hair, is inserted near the painful nerve. This electrode is then connected to a small pulse generator, which can either be implanted under the skin or kept externally.
Testing and Adjustment. The device is tested during the procedure to ensure it effectively blocks pain signals. Adjustments are made as needed to maximize comfort and relief.
Aftercare. You’ll spend some time in recovery to ensure everything is working as it should. The medical team will show you how to use the device, including adjusting the stimulation levels.

This nerve stimulation therapy procedure generally takes 30 to 60 minutes.

What Are the Benefits vs. Risks of a PNS?

Benefits:

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Targeted Pain Relief. A PNS implant delivers electrical stimulation directly to the affected nerves.

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Non-Medication Option. Peripheral stimulation reduces the need for pain medications, minimizing side effects and risk of dependency.

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Minimally Invasive. The procedure involves a small incision, leading to a quick recovery and less discomfort compared to major surgeries.

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Adjustable On-the-go. Patients can control the level of stimulation, customizing their nerve stimulation for neuropathy for better results.

Risks:

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Device Complications.The PNS device may shift or malfunction, which could require re-adjustment or full replacement.

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Infection Risk. As with any implantable device, there is a potential risk of infection at the site of the implant.

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Nerve Irritation. Electrical stimulation can occasionally cause tingling or muscle twitching near the targeted nerve.

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Variable Effectiveness. Not all patients experience significant pain relief, and some may require further adjustments or alternative treatments if the peripheral stimulation does not provide enough results.

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After the Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Therapy

Recovery after peripheral nerve stimulator placement is generally smooth, but it’s important to follow specific care instructions for the best results. After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness at the implant site, which typically subsides within a few days. Your doctor will provide guidance on how to care for the surgical area, such as keeping the incision clean and avoiding strenuous activities for the first two weeks.

Most patients can gradually resume light activities as they feel more comfortable. Close follow-up visits may be scheduled to ensure the peripheral stimulator implant is working correctly. During this period, you’ll learn how to use the external remote to manage pain effectively.

Choose Us for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation in Dallas, TX

Looking for expert care for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) in Dallas, TX? Foundation Pain & Spine Pain Management Clinic, led by Dr. Thompson, offers fully personalized, effective solutions for chronic pain. Our clinic uses advanced PNS technology to target specific nerves, helping reduce pain without relying heavily on medications or other invasive treatments. We also provide complementary treatments like Botox treatment for conditions such as migraines, offering a highly comprehensive approach to pain management.

With Dr. Thompson’s expertise, you’ll receive personalized and genuine care that focuses on long-term pain relief. Ready to feel the difference? Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

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At Foundation Pain & Spine, Dr. Thompson and his team are here to help patients find relief from pain. Effective pain relief starts with a pain specialist and Dr. Thompson is here for you.

What Clients Say About Us

      
   Foundation Pain & Spine PLLC
   52 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Tom 
 2024-07-09
 
 
  Started seeing Justin with level 8 pain for decades. Was told major back surgery was my only option to relieve it. I am not a surgicsl candidate due to fatal allergy to anesthesia. Dr. Thompson put in an intrathecal pain pump using alternate anesthesia. My pain levels now are 5-6! Major relief. I now can walk shoet distances and make my way through the grocery store. I am so grateful.  He is attentive and listens to the patient and includes them in treatments.  Clinic staff is excellent also. I am blessed to have been referred to him.  Incredible clinic.
  
 
       
   Trish Cross 
 2024-05-03
 
 
  Very caring, understanding and professional.
  
 
       
   Paul Terrell 
 2024-04-12
 
 
  Excellent physician who truly care for the well being of his patients. He has gone out of his way to accommodate my everchanging needs on more than one occasion. Navigating life after an injury that left me disabled has been more than challenging but I am confident I will get through it with Dr Thompson in my corner.
  
 
       
   Renee Cooper 
 2023-10-20
 
 
  Dr. Thompson is the first doctor to manage my pain, he's a great doctor that actually listens and evaluate your opinions. My case is complicated but he's been a great help.
  
 
       
   Skyler Karins 
 2022-05-19
 
 
  Two weeks ago I was helping a family lay sod grass and the next day I started to experience hip, leg, and foot pain. I was just taking over the counter pain relief for 2 weeks, but the pain just continued to get worse. I scheduled an appointment and Dr. Thompson was able to see me the same day. He did a great job of assessing my pain and doing a thorough exam on where my pain might be generating from. He prescribed me two pain medications that have me feeling back to my normal self. Words can’t describe the happiness I feel to be back to normal. Thank you Dr. Thompson for helping me get back to a better quality of life.
  
 
       
   KidFink 13 
 2022-05-01
 
 
  Most of the reviews you see may not be authentic. The first appointment he seemed to care and listen to my problems being a paraplegic and my surgery I had coming up needing a pain doctor to take over my post surgery pain medication. He mentioned a procedure to look into that he could do also gave me a lower dosage of what I had been taking for the past 2 years so I was in agony for 15 days I went through 2 or 3 appointments each with a gap of 15 days and did not raise my dosage and sent me to get an MRI. There were a lot of people there to get procedures done I didn’t think much of it at first until I went back to talk about why he gave me an MRI.  Told me that I’m a good candidate and we should move forward with the procedure that I did not agree on. I said I am not comfortable with it and told me, that I am not a good match for his care and I should find someone else. Reminded him that I need a pain management doctor for surgery. Post surgery the doctors at the hospital tried to contact his office multiple times multiple days with no answer. So they had to send in a prescription and released me. I had to get in contact with him to finally get a script. So if you are having surgery and or not comfortable with going through a procedure I would not recommend because that’s all he does is procedures and does not like to prescribe pain medication when it says in his description that he does. I have my own opinion on why he only wants to do procedures but that’s not here nor there. I am only writing this as a warning for other people in my position. Wish you well and my have a better experience than I do.
  
 
       
   Ashley Grissom 
 2022-04-06
 
 
  It is a great office it's just very hard to get in contact with anybody by making an appointment or calling!

FAQs About Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)

What Is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a minimally invasive treatment used to manage chronic pain by delivering electrical impulses to specific nerves. This technique involves the implantation of a small device that sends these impulses to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. PNS is commonly used for conditions such as neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome, and other chronic pain syndromes.

How Does Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Work?

Peripheral nerve stimulation works by placing a small electrode near the targeted nerve. Once implanted, the device generates electrical impulses that stimulate the nerve, effectively modulating pain signals and providing relief. This stimulation can alter the way the nervous system processes pain, helping to reduce discomfort and improve overall function.

How Long Does the Effect of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Last?

The effects of peripheral nerve stimulation can vary widely among individuals. Some patients may experience significant pain relief immediately following the procedure, while others may take longer to notice improvement. The duration of relief can also differ, with many patients enjoying sustained benefits for months or even years, depending on their specific condition and response to treatment.

How Much Does Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Cost?

The cost of peripheral nerve stimulation can vary based on factors such as the healthcare provider, the location of the procedure, and whether any additional treatments are required. Typically, costs may include the device, the procedure itself, and follow-up care. It’s important to discuss financial aspects with your healthcare provider or insurance company to understand the potential costs involved and any coverage options that may be available.

Author

Dr. Justin Thompson

Dr. Justin H. Thompson, MD, is the founder and CEO of Foundation Pain & Spine. A native Texan and graduate of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dr. Thompson specializes in pain management. With advanced training from Baylor University and Virginia Commonwealth University, he offers innovative, personalized treatments to help patients overcome chronic pain and restore their quality of life.
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