Medically Reviewed By: Mr Panos Papikinos
PTNS is a simple and safe way to improve your bladder control for an over active bladder without major side effects or invasive interventions.
Bladder function is a complex interaction between bladder, brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. With an OAB, this coordination does not work as it should. Instead, bladder nerves continually send signals to your brain that your bladder should be emptied even when it is not full.
PTNS therapy offers a gentle and gradual approach to modifying overactive bladder (OAB) signals. During treatment, mild electrical impulses are delivered through an acupuncture-like needle placed near your ankle. These impulses travel along the tibial nerve in your leg, ultimately reaching the nerves responsible for controlling bladder function.
Patients have described various sensations during PTNS treatment. Some experience a numbing or tingling feeling, while others notice a pulsating or vibrating sensation as the therapy is administered.
Each session lasts for around 30 minutes, giving you time to relax, read, play games, or catch up on emails.
Initially, you'll attend 12 weekly sessions to assess your response to the therapy. Many patients begin noticing improvements after about six treatments, though it may take up to 12 weeks to experience significant results.
After this, periodic maintenance sessions are recommended to ensure long-term relief.
The cost of the treatment will be explained to you before you start your 12-week course. The charges for each visit will be invoiced to you following each treatment.
Sensations - patients typically experience mild tingling, vibrating, or pulsating sensations near the ankle or foot during the procedure. Some may feel a numbed or throbbing sensation, which is generally well-tolerated.
Comfort - the treatment is conducted while you are seated comfortably, with your leg elevated. You can read, play games, or relax during the 30-minute session.
Adjustments - your healthcare provider will adjust the electrical impulses to ensure the treatment is effective yet comfortable.
Immediate recovery - PTNS is non-invasive, so patients can resume normal activities immediately after each session.
Symptom relief - improvements in symptoms, such as reduced urinary urgency and frequency, are often noticeable after 6 sessions, with optimal results typically achieved after 12 weeks.
Maintenance - periodic maintenance sessions may be required to sustain long-term relief.
Medications - while anticholinergic drugs and beta-3 agonists are effective for many, they can cause side effects like dry mouth, constipation, or dizziness. PTNS offers a drug-free alternative with fewer systemic side effects.
Botulinum toxin injections - into the bladder are another option for OAB, but they involve more invasive procedures and carry risks like urinary retention. PTNS is minimally invasive and avoids these complications.
Surgical options - procedures like sacral nerve stimulation or bladder reconstruction may be recommended for severe cases.
Patients who complete PTNS therapy often report:
Enhanced bladder control - reduced urgency, frequency, and incontinence, leading to fewer interruptions in daily life.
Better sleep – not needing to go for a pee as much in the night allows for more restful nights.
Increased confidence - relief from OAB symptoms helps patients regain confidence in social and professional settings.
Overall wellbeing - the non-invasive nature of PTNS contributes to a positive treatment experience with minimal stress or discomfort.
Most patients find PTNS comfortable, with sensations like tingling or vibrating near the ankle. The intensity is adjustable to suit individual comfort levels.
Each PTNS session lasts about 30 minutes, during which you can relax, read, or catch up on emails.
Many patients notice improvements after 6 sessions, with optimal results typically achieved after 12 weeks of therapy.
PTNS is generally safe, with minor risks like redness or numbness at the needle insertion site. These symptoms are short-lived and resolve quickly.
Results vary, but periodic maintenance sessions can help sustain symptom relief over the long term.
Clifton Park Hospital, part of Ramsay Health Care UK (Ramsay UK) was pleased to welcome Luke Charters, MP for York Outer, for an official visit.
We are proud to recognise Mr. Peter Hodgkinson for 20 years of dedicated service as MAC Chair at Cobalt Hospital, and to welcome our new chair Mr. Andrew Gray.
West Midlands Hospital was delighted to welcome Alex Ballinger, MP for Halesowen, for a return visit to the hospital. As the only hospital in the Halesowen constituency, West Midlands plays a vital role in supporting both the NHS and the local community by meeting local healthcare needs.
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