Understanding PNS Therapy
Unlike Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) which targets the central nervous system, PNS targets specific nerves in your extremities, trunk, or head. It is essentially a “pacemaker for your pain.”
Minimally Invasive
Performed as an outpatient, same-day procedure. A microscopic wire is placed precisely next to the targeted nerve through a small needle, avoiding major surgery.
Common Indications
Highly effective for Occipital Neuralgia (headaches), shoulder pain, post-amputation/stump pain, knee pain, groin pain, and localized extremity neuropathies.
Opioid Alternative
Level 1 evidence shows PNS significantly reduces postoperative pain scores and reliance on opioids, giving patients a medication-free path to functionality.
The Journey to Relief: Trial & Implant
1
The Temporary Trial
A completely reversible test drive. A temporary wire is placed next to the nerve. For 7 to 60 days (depending on the system), you wear an external stimulator.
Goal: Achieve >50% pain relief and functional improvement.
2
Evaluation Phase
After the trial, the temporary wire is easily removed in the clinic. Dr. Kalia will evaluate your pain diaries to determine if the therapy was a clinical success.
Some 60-day systems (like SPR) may provide lasting relief without a permanent implant.
3
The Permanent Implant
If the trial is successful, a permanent micro-lead is implanted. Depending on the vendor, it may be powered by an internal battery or a discreet wearable external battery.
Result: Long-term, programmable, patient-controlled relief.
State-of-the-Art Technology Partners
Because no single device is perfect for every patient, Savya Neuroscience Institute partners with the industry’s leading innovators to provide highly customized PNS solutions.
SPRINT System
60-Day temporary system. No permanent implant required.
Micro-Implant
Battery-free micro-implant powered by a comfortable external disc.
Freedom System
High-frequency options with wireless external power routing.
StimRouter
Targeted, permanent implant with external patch transmitter.
Hemant Kalia, MD, MPH
Director, Advanced Neuromodulation
Pioneering PNS: Clinical Work & Publications
Dr. Kalia is a globally recognized thought leader actively shaping the future of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation. His research focuses on optimizing patient outcomes and standardizing minimally invasive techniques.
📚 Selected Publications & Guidelines
- Consensus Guidelines for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: Contributor to the NEURON Group’s landmark framework for evidence-based PNS deployment.
- Neuromodulation Journal (2023): “Outcomes of 60-Day Percutaneous PNS for Chronic Shoulder Pain: A Retrospective Analysis.”
- Pain Medicine (2024): “Minimizing Opioid Reliance Post-Amputation via Early Intervention Peripheral Nerve Stimulation.”
📊 National Scientific Posters
- North American Neuromodulation Society (NANS) 2025: “Long-term Functional Restoration in Refractory Occipital Neuralgia utilizing Nalu Micro-Implant PNS.” (Poster Presentation by Hemant Kalia, MD, MPH). (Poster Presentation by Hemant Kalia, MD, MPH).
- American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA): “Comparative Efficacy of SPR Sprint vs Permanent Implants in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type II.”