Overview:
If you have chronic pain, peripheral nerve stimulation can help. It uses electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals. It may reduce your need for pain medications. Here’s how it works.
Leads:
The system has three parts. The first is a tiny implant we call a “lead.” It looks like a wire. It’s put in through a needle and placed next to your painful nerves. More than one lead may be put into your body.
Transmitter:
A lead doesn’t need a battery. It gets power from the second part of the system. This is the “transmitter” (also called the “antenna”). You clip it to your clothing and wear it against your skin. It sends wireless
electrical pulses through your skin and into each lead. The leads deliver the pulses to your nerves. These pulses intercept and block pain signals. They help you feel a lot less pain.
Controller:
How do you adjust the signals? You do it with the third part of the system, called the “controller.” Your controller may be an app on a phone, tablet or smartwatch. Customize your settings to deliver the strength and pattern of stimulation that feels best to you. You’ll be guided through this process and taught how to block your pain.
Conclusion:
Talk to your doctor to find out if wireless peripheral nerve stimulation is right for you.