One therapy concept. At least four different approaches.
Tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) is receiving increasing attention worldwide as a treatment for overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms.
Published studies suggest that approximately one-half to two-thirds of patients who try TNS experience meaningful improvement. However, TNS does not work for everyone.
There are several ways to stimulate the tibial nerve. Differences include:
- How stimulation is delivered,
- Cost,
- Convenience,
- Physician involvement,
- Regulatory status, and
- History.
History: TNS therapies have evolved over the last two decades, compared with some of the previously listed therapies, which have antecedents dating back centuries.
If you’ve reached this sixth category of OAB therapies, your list of therapies to discuss with your physician may not yet be complete. More information on this relatively newer approach to OAB Therapy follows.
Before comparing TNS therapies, consider these general observations:
- Growing interest: Commercial and clinical interest in TNS for OAB is growing. TNS helps some patients.
- Success with another approach: We do not know whether success with one TNS approach predicts success with another. Some international studies and anecdotes suggest it may.
- Choosing a trial: If your physician finds no reason for you to avoid TNS, you can decide which approach best fits your circumstances. A trial will show how well it works for you.
- Changing approaches: If you later want to try another TNS therapy, discuss it with your physician. If the results are unsatisfactory, you may return to an approach that worked for you.
- What remains unknown: Much remains to be learned about TNS. Every patient’s experience could contribute to our understanding.