PTNS for Overactive Bladder
What is PTNS for OAB?
Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation, or PTNS, is a non-surgical treatment for OAB. Medication isn’t always effective against the symptoms of Overactive Bladder, and sometimes the side effects interfere with quality of life. PTNS can help reduce OAB symptoms by relaxing the bladder muscles.
How does PTNS for OAB work?
PTNS therapy works by stimulating nerves through gentle electrical impulses, called neuromodulation. During the PTNS procedure, your foot is elevated and a slim needle electrode is placed by the tibial nerve in the ankle. Mild electrical impulses are sent to the sacral nerve via the tibial nerve. The sacral nerve plexus is responsible for bladder function.
PTNS can change bladder activity. You will receive a series of 12 weekly treatments that usually last 30 minutes each. After the 12 treatments, your response to PTNS will be assessed. Additional treatments may be needed to continue OAB symptom improvement.
How effective is PTNS for OAB?
Studies report that between 60 and 80 percent of patients see OAB symptom improvement with PTNS. This includes reduction in the number of leakages and urgency episodes per day. Many also reported quality of life improvements.
How do I know if PTNS is right for me?
If you’ve had no luck with medications and you’re ready to try something else, PTNS treatment for OAB might be right for you. People with OAB are suffering from a nerve disorder. When your nerves misfire, your bladder gets a signal to squeeze suddenly. This causes bladder spasms that can lead to leakage and sudden or frequent urges to use the bathroom.
Symptoms like these can mean you’re planning your life around having access to a bathroom and no longer participating in the activities you love. You may find yourself worrying about OAB every day.
What results can I expect?
Patients can expect symptoms to improve between two and 12 weeks. After the 12 week course of treatment, patients can usually maintain improvement with an occasional PTNS treatment.
What are the risks associated with PTNS for OAB?
Some of the risks associated with PTNS for OAB include:
- Bruising or bleeding where the needle is inserted
- Tingling
- Mild pain
Your doctor will discuss the potential risks of PTNS prior to treatment.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to overcome the inconvenient symptoms of OAB, call today to schedule a PTNS for OAB consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I miss a week of therapy?
Missing a week of therapy is fine. Treatment will continue the following week, and you will add on a makeup session to complete 12 total.
Will my insurance cover the cost of therapy?
Most major insurance plans cover the cost of PTNS treatments.