Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) Therapy
A non-opioid solution for chronic pain—customized, minimally invasive, and patient-controlled.
If chronic pain continues to impact your quality of life despite other treatments, a Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) may offer the breakthrough you need. This minimally invasive therapy targets the specific nerves responsible for pain in your limbs or torso using a small implanted device.
What Is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a non-opioid, neuromodulation treatment used to manage chronic pain by sending mild electrical impulses directly to the nerves causing discomfort. These impulses interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain—offering relief without medication.
PNS is often used for:
Limb or torso pain (e.g. post-surgical, post-traumatic, or neuropathic pain)
Patients who have not responded to injections, medications, or physical therapy
Those seeking a safer alternative to long-term opioid use
How the Procedure Works
At Silver Pain Centre, PNS implantation is done as an outpatient procedure using fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance) for precision and safety.
Step-by-Step Process:
Imaging & Lead Placement
Under local anesthetic and imaging guidance, a thin electrode (lead) is placed near the target nerve.
Device Implantation
The stimulator is implanted under the skin and connected to the lead. The process typically takes 2–3 hours.
Programming & Training
After surgery, we’ll program the stimulator to match your pain pattern and show you how to adjust settings with your personal remote.
Recovery & Support
Patients typically go home the same day. PNS can help with pain relief, muscle activation, and rehabilitation readiness.
Why Choose PNS at Silver Pain Centre?
Minimally Invasive
No major surgery required—performed under image guidance with local anesthesia.
Patient-Controlled
Easily adjust therapy levels anytime using your handheld remote.
Non-Opioid Relief
Targets pain at its source, reducing reliance on medications.
Long-Term Functionality
Supports pain relief and muscle recovery to enable physical therapy participation.
Personalized & Adjustable
Each stimulator is custom-programmed to meet your needs.
Expert Aftercare
Ongoing support, programming, and follow-up from a dedicated care team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) Therapy feel?
Most patients describe the stimulation as a mild tingling, pulsing, or tapping sensation near the area of pain. The goal is for this feeling to replace or mask the pain signals traveling to the brain, providing noticeable relief. The sensation is adjustable, and many patients report a feeling of control and comfort knowing they can modify intensity levels using their handheld remote. Over time, your body may adapt to the stimulation, allowing for lower settings to achieve the same pain relief.
Who is a candidate for Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS)?
You may be a strong candidate for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation if:
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You have chronic pain in your limbs or torso (such as post-surgical, post-traumatic, or neuropathic pain)
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Other treatments like injections, medications, or physical therapy have provided limited or short-term relief
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You are seeking a non-opioid, long-term solution for managing persistent nerve-related pain
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You are not a candidate for—or want to avoid—more invasive surgical procedures
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You are willing to participate in a trial phase to determine if PNS is right for you before committing to permanent implantation
What is the recovery like?
Recovery from PNS implantation is generally quick and manageable:
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Most patients are able to go home the same day of the procedure
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Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the implant site is common and usually resolves within a few days
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You may be asked to limit vigorous activity for 1–2 weeks to allow healing around the electrode and stimulator
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Our team provides detailed post-op instructions and is available to answer any concerns during your recovery
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Many patients are able to begin or resume physical therapy shortly after recovery, often with improved pain tolerance
Will I need to come back for adjustments?
Yes—but the good news is that support is part of your care plan. After the initial implantation:
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Our team will program the device specifically to your pain profile before you leave
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You’ll receive training on how to use your remote control, including how to increase or decrease stimulation levels
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Follow-up appointments are scheduled to fine-tune your settings based on your feedback and comfort
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Adjustments may also be made as your body adapts or as your daily activities change
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Ongoing support is available at any time—you’re never left managing it alone
What to Expect at Silver Pain Centre?
We’ve designed our process to be thorough, supportive, and patient-centered.
Complete Your Self-Referral: Fill out our secure online form. A physician will review your case within 72 hours and contact you for a consultation.
Consultation & Assessment: We’ll assess your pain pattern, history, and goals to determine if you’re a candidate for PNS.
Receive Treatment: If eligible, your procedure will be booked and performed using image guidance in a comfortable outpatient setting.
Post-Procedure Support: You’ll receive full training, programming, and follow-up to help you get the most out of your PNS device.
Is this treatment right for you or your patient?
Our Medical Director is here to help. If you have a question about whether this treatment is appropriate for yourself or someone in your care, submit it below and our team will review your inquiry.
Your Partner in Pain Management
At Silver Pain Centre, we understand the challenges of chronic pain. We offer comprehensive care for a wide range of conditions, including joint and back pain, chronic headaches, nerve pain, muscle injuries, post-surgical pain, sports injuries, and more.
Located in North Toronto, our modern 20,000 sq. ft. facility offers shorter wait times and free parking, making access to care easier. With a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach, we create tailored treatment plans to deliver long-lasting relief when traditional methods have not succeeded.
Explore Silver Pain Centre Difference
Regain Control Over Chronic Pain—Start Your Self-Referral for PNS Therapy Today!
If you’ve tried everything and still struggle with limb or torso pain, Peripheral Nerve Stimulation may offer long-term relief without medication. Our specialists at Silver Pain Centre will review your self-referral within 72 hours and guide you through a personalized consultation—available virtually or in person.