Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Calm a painful nerve directly, often without a permanent implant.

People with chronic pain from an identifiable nerve or region (such as low back pain carried by the medial branch nerves, shoulder or knee pain, or nerve pain after injury, surgery or amputation) that has not responded to rehabilitation and simpler care.

A thin lead is placed near the target nerve through a needle under ultrasound or X-ray guidance and connected to a small wearable stimulator. Temporary systems are removed after about 60 days. Implanted systems stay in place.

Randomized and prospective studies show improvements in pain and function for several indications, and some patients keep the benefit after a temporary system is removed. Results vary.

Risks include skin irritation, lead movement or breakage, infection and temporary soreness.