Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
Peripheral nerve stimulation is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve certain types of chronic pain. Gentle electrical impulses are delivered to targeted peripheral nerves, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. At UTHealth Houston Neurosciences, doctors use peripheral nerve stimulation to treat persistent nerve-related pain that has not improved with medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments.
Because the therapy targets the nerve responsible for the pain, it provides a focused approach that may reduce the need for long-term medication. Our multidisciplinary team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and pain specialists works together to determine whether this treatment may benefit each patient.
UTHealth Houston Neurosciences interventional pain management specialist Stephanie Regenhardt, MD, PhD, discusses how peripheral nerve stimulators work and what types of pain they can be used to treat.
Who may benefit from peripheral nerve stimulation?
Peripheral nerves carry signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. When a nerve becomes irritated or damaged, it can continue sending pain signals even after the original injury has healed. Peripheral nerve stimulation helps modulate these signals so the brain perceives less pain. This therapy may be considered for certain types of chronic nerve pain, including chronic headaches or migraines, post-surgical nerve pain, nerve injuries, and complex regional pain syndrome. A patient’s care team will review symptoms, medical history, and prior treatments to determine whether peripheral nerve stimulation may be an appropriate option.
What to expect during the procedure
Peripheral nerve stimulation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. After the treatment area is numbed with local anesthesia, the physician uses imaging guidance to place a thin lead near the targeted nerve. The lead connects to a small stimulator that delivers mild electrical impulses to help regulate pain signals. Many patients first undergo a trial to determine whether the therapy provides meaningful relief. If the trial is successful, a longer-term device may be implanted.
What to expect during recovery
Recovery is usually quick with most patients returning home the same day. Many people resume normal activities within a few days, although physicians may recommend avoiding strenuous movement while the leads settle in place. Pain relief varies, but many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life. When effective, peripheral nerve stimulation can reduce reliance on pain medications and help patients return to daily activities.
UTHealth Houston Neurosciences provides comprehensive care for complex neurological and pain conditions. Our specialists combine advanced technology with a patient-centered approach to develop treatment plans designed to restore comfort, mobility, and quality of life.