Nalu PNS in Ventura County
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) with the Nalu™ Neurostimulation System is a drug-free, minimally invasive treatment option for adults living with severe, intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin. The Nalu System uses gentle electrical stimulation to help interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain and is designed to provide a personalized, long-term approach to chronic pain management.
How Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Works
Peripheral nerve stimulation uses thin wires called leads that are placed under the skin near the nerves associated with your pain. These leads deliver mild electrical impulses that can interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain. With the Nalu System, most patients do not feel the electrical stimulation, although some patients may experience a gentle tingling sensation called paresthesia.
The Nalu System includes a small, implanted micro-implantable pulse generator (mIPG), flexible leads that deliver targeted nerve stimulation, and an externally worn Therapy Disc that wirelessly powers the system. A remote-control app can also allow patients to make minor therapy adjustments as prescribed by their physician.
Why Consider the Nalu System?
The Nalu System is designed to provide a discreet and flexible approach to peripheral nerve stimulation. Its miniaturized implanted components allow for a minimally invasive procedure, while the externally worn Therapy Disc can be placed under clothing and removed when therapy is not needed.
The Nalu System is also designed without an implanted battery that requires periodic replacement surgery. The externally worn Therapy Disc provides power to the implanted microstimulator and can be upgraded as technology and therapy options evolve.
Nalu clinical data has demonstrated sustained pain relief and functional improvements across four anatomical regions, including the shoulder, low back, knee, and foot or ankle. In one 24-month randomized clinical trial, 85% of patients were responders, 74% reported improvement in disability, and 96% reported patient satisfaction. Average pain relief at 24 months was reported as 67%.
What to Expect With Nalu Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Step 1: Wear Experience
Before beginning the therapy trial, you may have a wear experience to determine whether the Nalu system's wearable components are comfortable for you. An adhesive clip and non-functioning Therapy Disc may be worn in different positions for up to 14 days to help determine the best location for the Therapy Disc and implanted device based on your anatomy and lifestyle.
Step 2: Therapy Trial
If your physician determines that peripheral nerve stimulation may be appropriate for you, a small procedure is performed to place temporary leads near the nerves associated with your pain. During the trial period, you and your physician can evaluate changes in pain, sleep, and daily activities. The temporary leads are removed after the trial, and you can discuss the results with your physician.
Step 3: Permanent Implant
If the trial is successful, your physician may perform a minimally invasive procedure to place permanent leads and the Nalu micro-implantable pulse generator in the appropriate location for your specific pain. Your prescribed therapy is programmed into the system, and you will receive instructions on using the remote-control app.
Step 4: Resume Your Activities
After implantation, you will continue working with your physician to optimize your therapy and manage your chronic pain. The goal is to help you achieve meaningful pain relief and potentially return to activities that may have become difficult because of chronic pain.
Nalu System Clinical Results
The Nalu System is supported by peer-reviewed clinical research and real-world evidence. Current clinical data includes two randomized clinical trials as well as real-world registry data.
24-Month COMFORT RCT
Responder Rate: 85%
Reported Improvement in Disability: 74%
Patient Satisfaction: 96%
Average Pain Relief at 24 Months: 67%
In the COMFORT study, responder status was defined as achieving at least 50% pain relief from baseline. Disability improvement was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index.
If you are living with chronic pain that may be related to a peripheral nerve and other treatments have not provided adequate relief, peripheral nerve stimulation may be an option to discuss with your doctor.
Please call our office at 805-351-0745 to schedule an appointment and learn whether the Nalu System may be appropriate for you. Your physician can evaluate your condition, discuss your treatment history, and help determine which pain management options may be right for you.
Individual results may vary. Nalu peripheral nerve stimulation is a prescription therapy and should only be used under the direction of a qualified physician.