Chronic pain is a major health concern affecting millions of Australians, often leading to reduced quality of life and reliance on medications. While traditional pain management approaches such as physiotherapy, medication, and even surgery have their place, a newer, less invasive treatment is gaining attention—Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS). This innovative therapy is offering new hope to those struggling with persistent pain conditions, providing relief without the risks associated with long-term medication use.
What is Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation?
Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) is a minimally invasive treatment that involves the use of small, thin needle electrodes inserted through the skin to deliver electrical impulses to targeted nerves. Unlike Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), which works on the surface of the skin, PENS penetrates deeper to directly stimulate nerve fibres. This results in more effective pain relief, particularly for conditions where surface treatments may not provide adequate results.
This therapy is typically performed in a clinical setting by a trained healthcare professional and is often used for chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. The electrical pulses work by modulating pain signals, stimulating endorphin release, and improving blood flow to the affected area, which helps reduce inflammation and discomfort.
How Does PENS Work?
The procedure begins with the insertion of fine needle electrodes into the skin near the area of pain or along a nerve pathway. Once in place, electrical impulses are delivered at controlled frequencies and intensities to target the affected nerves. The treatment usually lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, and patients may require multiple sessions depending on their condition and response to therapy.
PENS works by disrupting pain signals that travel from the affected area to the brain. It also encourages the body’s natural painkillers, known as endorphins, to activate, providing relief without the need for medication. Some research also suggests that PENS may help reset abnormal nerve activity, particularly in cases of neuropathic pain.
Conditions That Can Benefit from PENS
PENS has been shown to be particularly effective in treating various types of chronic and acute pain, including:
• Lower back pain – Common in Australians due to sedentary lifestyles or physically demanding jobs
• Neuropathic pain – Conditions like sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, and post-surgical nerve pain
• Arthritis-related pain – Helping manage symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Postoperative pain – Assisting with pain relief after surgery, reducing the need for opioids
• Fibromyalgia – Providing relief from widespread musculoskeletal pain
• Sports injuries – Used as part of rehabilitation for muscle and nerve-related injuries
The Advantages of PENS Over Traditional Pain Management
One of the key benefits of PENS is that it offers pain relief without the need for medications, particularly opioids, which can lead to dependency and unwanted side effects. This is especially important in Australia, where opioid-related issues are a growing concern.
Unlike invasive surgical procedures, PENS is a minimally invasive option with little to no downtime. Patients can usually return to their normal activities shortly after treatment.
Another advantage is that PENS has fewer side effects compared to oral painkillers and other interventions. Since it directly targets the nerves without affecting the digestive system, it avoids common issues associated with pain medications, such as stomach irritation, drowsiness, and dependency.
Availability of PENS in Australia
In Australia, PENS is becoming more widely available in pain management clinics, physiotherapy centres, and specialist medical practices. While it may not yet be as commonly known as TENS therapy, growing research and clinical evidence are making it a preferred option for many healthcare providers. Some private health funds may cover part of the cost, depending on the policy and the condition being treated.
For Australians considering PENS therapy, it is important to consult a pain specialist, physiotherapist, or GP to determine if the treatment is suitable. Many patients report significant improvement in their pain levels after a series of treatments, making it a promising alternative to conventional pain management approaches.
Are There Any Risks?
As with any medical procedure, there are some minor risks associated with PENS, but they are generally low. These may include:
• Temporary discomfort or bruising at the insertion site
• Mild bleeding in rare cases
• Allergic reactions to the materials used in the electrodes (uncommon)
However, serious complications are extremely rare, and most patients tolerate the treatment well. It is always best to have PENS administered by a qualified professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The Future of PENS in Pain Management
With ongoing advancements in pain management technology, Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is set to play a larger role in treating chronic pain in Australia. As awareness increases, more Australians are expected to turn to this method as a drug-free alternative to managing pain.
For those struggling with persistent pain that has not responded to conventional treatments, PENS may provide the breakthrough they need. By working directly on the nerves, reducing pain perception, and promoting natural healing, this therapy is paving the way for a new era in pain relief.
