Peripheral nerve stimulation uses mild electrical pulses delivered to a specific nerve outside the spine to help manage chronic pain in one area of the body, such as the shoulder, knee, lower back or foot. It’s a minimally invasive option for some people whose localized nerve pain hasn’t improved enough with other treatments.
Peripheral nerves carry sensation, including pain, from your body to your spinal cord. When one of these nerves is injured or irritated, it may keep sending pain signals long after the original injury.
A peripheral nerve stimulator uses a very thin wire (a lead) placed near the targeted nerve, usually through a needle. The lead connects to a small device that sends gentle electrical pulses to the nerve. Those pulses may change how pain signals are processed, reducing the pain you feel.
Depending on the system, peripheral nerve stimulation therapy may be temporary (worn for a set number of weeks and then removed) or long-term with a small implanted device.
Peripheral nerve stimulation for pain may be considered for:
affecting an arm or leg
Learn about CRPS
or surgery
that feels stiff and localized, sometimes with headaches at the base of the skull
Learn about Shoulder Pain
including pain after knee replacement
Learn about Knee Pain
in selected patients
Learn about Low Back Pain
in the foot, hand or other areas
Facet pain usually doesn’t travel below the knee or into the hand. Pain that shoots down a limb is more often nerve-related, and an epidural steroid injection may be more appropriate. Learn about Epidural Steroid Injection
Both therapies use electrical stimulation to manage pain, but they work in different places. Spinal cord stimulation targets the spinal cord and is often used for widespread pain, such as pain in the back and both legs. Peripheral nerve stimulation targets one specific nerve, so it’s usually a better fit for pain concentrated in one area. Your provider will recommend the approach that matches your pain pattern
Peripheral nerve stimulation may be an option if:
A diagnostic nerve block may be done first to confirm that the targeted nerve is involved in your pain.
Your provider reviews your medical history and medications, including blood thinners. You may be asked to note your pain level before the procedure so you can compare it afterward.
The skin is numbed, and your provider uses imaging guidance to place the thin lead near the targeted nerve. The device is connected and programmed before you leave.
Most people go home the same day and resume light activity. You’ll learn how to use and care for the device, and follow-up visits are scheduled to adjust settings.
Recovery is usually quick because the lead is placed through a needle. You may be asked to avoid strenuous activity for a short time. Some people notice changes in their pain within days, while for others it takes longer. If a temporary system is used, your provider will discuss next steps when the treatment period ends.
Possible risks include skin irritation where the device sits, infection at the lead site, lead movement and discomfort from stimulation. Serious complications are uncommon. You’ll need to check device precautions before MRI scans and certain medical procedures.
Call our office if you notice redness, swelling or drainage at the lead site, a fever, skin irritation under the device, a sudden change in stimulation, or if a lead seems to have moved.
Seek emergency care right away if you have trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a fever with severe pain.
Coverage for peripheral nerve stimulation varies by plan and indication, and prior authorization is often needed. Our team can help you check your benefits.
Explore our pain management care →
Lead placement is done with numbing medication. Many people feel only mild discomfort. During treatment, stimulation usually feels like a gentle tingling or may not be felt at all, depending on the system.
Not necessarily. Some systems are temporary and removed after a set period, and others are designed for long-term use. Your provider will explain which one fits your situation.
A TENS unit sends electrical pulses through pads on the skin. PNS places a lead directly near the nerve, which allows more targeted stimulation.
It depends on the system. Your care team will give you specific instructions for bathing and activity.
Schedule an evaluation at our Rego Park, Queens office to find out whether peripheral nerve stimulation may be an option for you.
