Peripheral Low Frequency Versus High Frequency Nerve Stimulation: A Case Series

Martini A, Occhigrossi F, Schweiger V, Gazzeri R, and Polati E. Peripheral Low Frequency Versus High Frequency Nerve Stimulation: A Case Series. Pain Medicine Case Report, 2026;10;307-311

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve stimulation is a therapeutic option for managing chronic neuropathic pain. After a thorough clinical evaluation—including a medical history review and, when appropriate, diagnostic anesthetic injections—a specific nerve associated with the pain can be identified. A peripheral nerve stimulator may then be implanted near this target nerve. The device delivers controlled electrical impulses that disrupt pain signals, offering varying levels of relief.

CASE REPORT: This case series compares the clinical efficacy of low frequency vs high frequency peripheral nerve stimulation therapy in 2 patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type II. Both patients had experienced inadequate pain relief from low frequency therapy devices and were subsequently treated with receiver based peripheral nerve stimulators capable of delivering higher frequencies; both patients then had clinically significant pain improvement.

CONCLUSION: These cases show the potential for high frequency—compared to lower frequencies—peripheral nerve stimulation for treating pain more effectively in selected patients with neuropathic pain..

KEYWORDS: CRPS, Chronic pain, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, case series, peripheral nerve stimulation