Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a form of neuromodulation therapy used to treat chronic pain conditions. The application of an electrical field in the peripheral nervous system was first introduced in 1967, prior to the application of spinal cord stimulation. Until recently the treatment of various chronic pain conditions with PNS had been delivered with equipment designed for spinal cord stimulation. The application of PNS for chronic pain has re-emerged as a viable neuromodulation therapy option due to the advancement of dedicated PNS equipment, increased awareness of ultrasonography, and improved reimbursement. This presentation will focus on the fundamental concepts of PNS in terms of indications, proposed mechanisms of action, application for common chronic pain conditions, and supporting evidence. The topics introduced will help both interventional and noninterventional pain physicians understand the application of PNS for chronic pain conditions.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the history of peripheral nerve stimulation
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