Peripheral Neuromodulation for Chronic Pain

BACKGROUND: Chronic, focal, neuropathic pain is difficult to treat. Local nerve blocks are either ineffective or do not last. Regular neuromodulation modalities like spinal cord stimulation (SCS) or pain pump are invasive and affect a larger area. OBJECTIVES: To discuss the indications, technique, nuances, programming, and outcomes of peripheral neuromodulation. METHODS: The article reviews published literature and the author's own experience of over 500 cases of peripheral neuromodulation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Peripheral neuromodulation using peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) is an effective, minimally invasive, targeted method of treatment. It is a relatively new modality in the field of neuromodulation but is used more often.