What is PTNS?
Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation or “PTNS” is a procedure where a very slim, small needle is placed on the inside of the ankle, stimulating the tibial nerve in the leg. This specific nerve runs up the course of the leg, and approaches the pelvic region where nerves responsible for bladder control are located. These nerves are indirectly stimulated and activated, making them more responsive to signals your body is sending them. The treatment lasts about 30 minutes and is done once a week for a total of 12 weeks. The treatment is not painful, and patients may experience some dull tingling from the stimulation and can return to normal activity immediately afterward. Most patients typically begin seeing improvement in their symptoms after only a few sessions, and want to continue “maintenance” monthly sessions after the completion of the 12 weeks because of how satisfied they were with the improvement in their symptoms.
Who should consider PTNS?
The PTNS treatments target patients suffering from OAB including urinary frequency, urinary urgency, nocturia, and/or mild urinary incontinence. PTNS requires insurance authorization.
