Urinary incontinence is a large unmet need with debilitating effects. The condition affects an estimated 13 to 15 million Americans and almost half of the persons diagnosed with urinary incontinence are affected by urge incontinence. Urge incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine accompanied by the strong desire to void.

Ob-gyn Group of Attleboro is now offering percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation.

Bladder function is regulated by a group of nerves at the base of the spine called the sacral nerve plexus. PTNS can be an effective treatment for urge incontinence.

PTNS is a simple procedure.  A fine needle is inserted into the skin just above the ankles at the SP6 acupuncture point to access the post tibial nerve.  A small electrode is then placed on the needle from the TENS unit (battery powered stimulator).  A mild electrical current is passed through into the nervous system. The patient may notice the big toe bending downward as well as an outward stretching of their outer toes. PTNS should never cause pain.  The protocol requires a once a week 30 minute treatment for 12 weeks. Results will probably take at least 6 treatments for you to see your symptoms change. After the completion of the 12 treatments your physician will discuss your response to the PTNS treatments and determine how often you will need future treatments to maintain your results.