Patient handout · Pain treatments
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
What it is
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) uses a very thin wire placed next to a painful nerve outside the spine. A small device sends mild pulses that may help calm pain signals. Some systems are used for about 60 days, then removed.
Why it is done
- Long-lasting nerve pain in one area
- Chronic knee, shoulder, back or limb pain
- Pain after an injury or surgery
- To help lower the need for pain medicine
What to expect
- Before: We review your exam and imaging. You may need to pause some medicines, such as blood thinners.
- During: The skin is numbed. A thin wire is placed through a needle using ultrasound or X-ray. Most people go home the same day.
- After: You use the stimulator at home and track your pain. Temporary wires are removed in the office.
Self-care tips
- Keep the wire site clean and dry as told.
- Check the skin under the bandage each day.
- Avoid heavy lifting or pulling on the wire.
- Tell other providers you have a device before any MRI.
When to call us
- Fever over 101°F or chills
- Redness, swelling or fluid at the wire site
- The wire moves, breaks or comes out
- Pain or numbness that gets worse
Call 911 for chest pain, trouble breathing, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
This handout is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.