Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) Shoulder Pain Treatment After Shoulder Surgery in Plano, TX

At Northstar Joint and Spine, led by board-certified pain management specialist Robert Nocerini understands that shoulder surgery can often lead to nerve pain during the recovery period. He strives to assist his patients in managing their discomfort by offering a range of effective strategies.

Dr. Nocerini also advises patients to maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on nerves and incorporate gentle exercises to improve shoulder mobility and reduce stiffness.

At Northstar Joint and Spine, we understand that everyone’s experience with nerve pain after shoulder surgery is unique. We will provide the necessary instructions and precautions when using medications or undergoing therapies, and if nerve pain persists or worsens, we are here to provide prompt medical attention.

Under Dr. Nocerini’s expert care, Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) offers several benefits:
• Non-addictive pain relief
• Long-term pain control
• Improved function and range of motion
• Reduced need for pain medication

Patients can adjust the stimulation as needed using a handheld programmer, allowing them to control their pain. Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Nocerini are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust the programming of the stimulator if needed.

Like any procedure, Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) carries some risks and complications. Dr. Nocerini ensures that all patients are aware of potential risks, which include:
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Device failure
• Pain relief that does not meet expectations

At NorthStar Joint and Spine, Dr. Robert Nocerini uses Peripheral Nerve Stimulation as a successful and long-term treatment option for chronic shoulder pain or shoulder pain after surgery. This minimally invasive procedure can significantly improve pain, function, range of motion, and overall quality of life for patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain.

We believe in the benefits of combining PNS with other treatments for a more holistic approach towards pain management.

Physical therapy is one such treatment that can work in tandem with PNS. We focus on improving your mobility and strength to address the root causes of your shoulder pain, enhancing its function and movement. We may also recommend pharmacotherapy, such as pain medications, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or corticosteroid injections. These can help alleviate inflammation and offer temporary relief, while PNS offers more long-term pain management benefits.

We also emphasize the significance of lifestyle changes, including consistent exercise and a nutritious diet, as part of the treatment regimen. These changes can help control body weight, reducing stress on the shoulder joint, and strengthening the shoulder muscles.

Studies have shown that PNS can lead to significant pain reduction in 70-80% of patients and improved function in 84% of cases. These studies align with the positive results Dr. Nocerini has seen in his own practice. However, it is crucial to recognize that not all patients experience the same level of relief, and Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) may not be suitable for all patients. This is why Dr. Nocerini carefully selects his patients and sets realistic expectations.

Dr. Nocerini has successfully utilized Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) to treat a broad range of patients suffering from shoulder pain after surgery. The success rate of PNS, however, can greatly depend on the individual patient’s condition, the underlying cause of the shoulder pain, and other factors.

Under the skilled hands of Dr. Nocerini, PNS has a high success rate in treating shoulder pain after surgery. However, its effectiveness can vary from patient to patient, and it’s essential to remember that PNS should only be performed by a qualified medical professional as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.

The recovery time with Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) usage can greatly vary based on factors such as the patient’s overall health, age, severity of shoulder pain and injury, type of surgery performed, physical fitness, and adherence to rehabilitation and PNS therapy.

In the initial recovery stage (0-2 weeks), patients may begin to feel pain relief a few days to a week after PNS implantation. This stage involves resting, managing pain with medications, and starting physical therapy to maintain range of motion, reduce inflammation, and gradually increase shoulder activity.

Early rehabilitation (2-6 weeks) follows the initial recovery stage. It’s during this period that the surgical incision heals, which usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks. Patients may need to tweak the settings of their PNS device with help to find the most effective level of stimulation for their pain.

The progressive recovery stage (6-12 weeks) involves increased intensity and frequency of physical therapy exercises, continuation of PNS therapy to reduce pain and promote recovery, and a return to activities of daily living and light exercise.

Finally, full recovery (3-6 months) is when most individuals achieve significant pain reduction and functional improvement. Continued physical therapy to optimize shoulder motion and strength is part of this stage, and regular PNS therapy may be required for long-term pain management.

It’s important to remember that while a PNS can significantly reduce shoulder pain, it doesn’t cure the underlying condition causing the pain. Consequently, it should be incorporated into a holistic pain management plan that may encompass physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications.

At NorthStar Joint and Spine, we understand that recovery times can greatly vary from person to person. Therefore, Dr. Nocerini makes it a point to discuss individual situations and expectations with his patients, providing personalized guidance and monitoring progress to ensure optimal outcomes. We offer comprehensive pain management care for patients in or near Plano, Frisco, Allen, Addison, Carrollton, Richardson, and neighboring parts of Texas.