Curonix Wireless PNS for Neuropathic Pain: The Freedom® System Explained
If you're living with chronic neuropathic pain that hasn't responded to conservative treatments, the Curonix Freedom® wireless peripheral nerve stimulation system represents a breakthrough in pain management technology—offering effective relief without the limitations of traditional battery-powered devices.
What is Neuropathic Pain?
Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition caused by damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nervous system. Unlike nociceptive pain (injury-related pain), neuropathic pain results from nerve damage itself—causing burning, shooting, stabbing, or electric-shock sensations even without an obvious injury.
💡 Key Takeaways: Understanding Neuropathic Pain
- • Nerve Origin: Pain caused by damaged peripheral nerves, not tissue injury
- • Common Causes: Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), surgery, trauma, chemotherapy, infections
- • Symptoms: Burning, shooting, tingling, numbness, electric-shock sensations
- • Chronic Nature: Often persists for months or years despite treatment
- • Treatment Challenge: Traditional pain medications often ineffective or cause side effects
Common Types of Neuropathic Pain
- Diabetic Neuropathy: Most common form affecting feet and hands due to high blood sugar damage
- Post-Surgical Neuropathy: Nerve damage following knee replacement, back surgery, or other procedures
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: Severe facial pain affecting the trigeminal nerve
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Chronic pain following injury or trauma
- Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy: Nerve damage from cancer treatments
Introducing the Curonix Freedom® PNS System
The Curonix Freedom® Peripheral Nerve Stimulator represents the latest advancement in neuropathic pain treatment. Unlike traditional battery-powered nerve stimulators that require replacement surgery every 5-10 years, the Curonix system is battery-free and powered wirelessly.
FDA Clearance & Clinical Milestones
🏆 July 2024 FDA Breakthrough
Curonix received FDA 510(k) clearance making the Freedom® PNS system the first and only full-body permanent PNS system cleared for treating chronic neuropathic pain throughout the entire body, including the craniofacial region.
Indication: Chronic, intractable neuropathic pain of peripheral origin
How Wireless PNS Technology Works
The Curonix system uses proprietary High-Frequency Electromagnetic Coupling (HF-EMC) technology to deliver nerve stimulation without an implanted battery:
Two-Component System:
- Implanted Components: Small electrode array and wireless receiver placed near the target peripheral nerve during a minimally invasive procedure
- External Transmitter: Worn on the skin as a patch or belt-worn device, transmits electromagnetic energy through the skin to power the implant
When the external transmitter is activated, it sends electromagnetic energy through the skin to the implanted receiver. The receiver converts this energy into electrical impulses that stimulate the peripheral nerve, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain.
📊 Key Takeaways: Curonix Technology Advantages
- • No Battery Replacements: Eliminates need for replacement surgery every 5-10 years
- • Unlimited Lifespan: Device never wears out or needs replacement
- • Smaller Implant: More comfortable than traditional battery-powered systems
- • Patient Control: Turn therapy on/off with external transmitter
- • Adjustable Programs: Customize stimulation parameters without additional surgery
Clinical Evidence & Patient Outcomes
The Curonix Freedom® system is backed by rigorous clinical research demonstrating safety and effectiveness for neuropathic pain:
Multi-Center Randomized Controlled Trial
Study Design:
- • Participants: 60 patients with chronic craniofacial neuropathic pain
- • Study Type: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) under FDA Investigational Device Exemption
- • Locations: 7 US medical centers
- • Follow-up: 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-implant
Results:
- ✅ >70% pain improvement at all follow-up timepoints
- ✅ 47% medication reduction at 24 months
- ✅ Level 1 evidence supporting PNS for craniofacial neuropathic pain
- ✅ Confirmed safe and effective for refractory chronic pain
What Conditions Can Curonix Treat?
The Curonix Freedom® PNS system is FDA-cleared to treat chronic, intractable neuropathic pain throughout the entire body, making it the most versatile permanent PNS system available:
Lower Extremity Pain
- • Peroneal nerve pain
- • Tibial nerve pain
- • Sural nerve pain
- • Diabetic neuropathy (feet/legs)
- • Post-surgical knee pain
Upper Extremity Pain
- • Median nerve pain
- • Ulnar nerve pain
- • Radial nerve pain
- • Post-traumatic neuropathy
- • CRPS (arms/hands)
Craniofacial Pain
- • Trigeminal neuralgia
- • Occipital neuralgia
- • Facial nerve pain
- • Post-surgical facial pain
- • Refractory headaches
Other Indications
- • Trunk neuropathic pain
- • Post-thoracotomy pain
- • Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
- • Nerve entrapment syndromes
- • Failed back surgery syndrome
The Curonix Implant Procedure
Receiving a Curonix Freedom® PNS system is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure typically completed in under 60 minutes:
Step 1: Trial Period (Optional)
Many patients undergo a 3-7 day trial with temporary leads to confirm effectiveness before permanent implantation. Medicare typically requires 50%+ pain reduction during trial.
Step 2: Pre-Procedure Preparation
Nerve mapping using diagnostic blocks identifies the exact peripheral nerve causing neuropathic pain. This ensures precise electrode placement.
Step 3: Implantation
Under local anesthesia with mild sedation, the electrode array and wireless receiver are placed near the target nerve using imaging guidance. Incisions are typically less than 1 inch.
Step 4: Programming & Recovery
The external transmitter is programmed to optimize pain relief. Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks with restrictions on heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.
Curonix vs. Traditional Battery-Powered PNS
| Feature | Curonix Wireless | Traditional Battery PNS |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | External (battery-free) | Implanted battery |
| Device Lifespan | Unlimited (no replacement) | 5-10 years (requires surgery) |
| Implant Size | Smaller (no battery) | Larger (includes battery) |
| Replacement Surgery | Never needed | Required every 5-10 years |
| Program Changes | Unlimited adjustments | Adjustable (battery limits) |
| Patient Control | On/off via external device | Always powered |
| FDA Clearance | Full-body including face | Specific regions |
Medicare Coverage & Costs
The Curonix Freedom® PNS system is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans when medically necessary for treating chronic intractable neuropathic pain.
💡 Key Takeaways: Medicare Coverage Requirements
- • Medical Necessity: Chronic pain lasting 6+ months despite conservative treatment
- • Failed Treatments: Documentation of failed medications, physical therapy, injections
- • Trial Success: 50%+ pain reduction during trial period (usually required)
- • CPT Codes: 64555, 64561, 64590 for placement and programming
- • Expert Support: Eagle Rock Medical handles pre-authorization and documentation
At Eagle Rock Medical in Idaho Falls, we specialize in helping Medicare patients navigate the approval process for wireless PNS therapy. Our team handles all pre-authorization, documentation, and follow-up requirements. Learn more about Medicare coverage for neuropathy treatment.
Who is a Candidate for Curonix PNS?
You may be a candidate for the Curonix Freedom® wireless PNS system if you experience:
- Chronic neuropathic pain lasting 6+ months
- Pain from a clearly identified peripheral nerve (confirmed by diagnostic nerve blocks)
- Inadequate relief from conservative treatments (medications, PT, injections)
- Desire to reduce or eliminate pain medications
- Willingness to wear an external transmitter for therapy
- No active infections or uncontrolled bleeding disorders
- Realistic expectations about pain reduction (typically 50-70% improvement)
Why Choose Eagle Rock Medical for Wireless PNS?
At Eagle Rock Neuropathy and Pain Center in Idaho Falls, we specialize in advanced peripheral nerve stimulation for neuropathic pain:
✓ Advanced Technology
We utilize the latest wireless PNS systems including Curonix Freedom® for battery-free, lifetime pain relief
✓ Medicare Specialists
Expert navigation of Medicare coverage requirements and pre-authorization process
✓ Proven Results
90-95% success rates with comprehensive neuropathy treatment in Idaho Falls
✓ Comprehensive Care
From diagnosis through implant and ongoing programming adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Curonix device last?
The Curonix Freedom® system has an unlimited lifespan since it contains no battery. The implanted components never need replacement. The external transmitter may need replacement every few years like any electronic device, but this requires no surgery.
Can I get an MRI with a Curonix implant?
MRI compatibility depends on the specific implant configuration. Consult with your physician before undergoing MRI. The Curonix system uses non-ferromagnetic materials, but MRI safety must be evaluated case-by-case.
Is the external transmitter waterproof?
The external transmitter is typically water-resistant but not fully waterproof. Patients can shower briefly but should remove the device for swimming or prolonged water exposure. Check your specific device instructions.
How often do I need to wear the external transmitter?
Most patients wear the external transmitter during waking hours when pain is most bothersome. You control when therapy is active. Some patients use it continuously, others only during specific activities. Your physician will help determine the optimal schedule.
Ready to Explore Wireless PNS for Your Neuropathic Pain?
Schedule a consultation at Eagle Rock Medical in Idaho Falls to learn if the Curonix Freedom® wireless PNS system is right for you.
📞 Call or Text: (208) 537-1090
Request a ConsultationThe Future of Neuropathic Pain Treatment
The Curonix Freedom® wireless PNS system represents the future of neuropathic pain management—offering effective, long-term relief without the limitations and risks of traditional battery-powered devices. With FDA clearance for full-body treatment including the craniofacial region, wireless PNS technology is expanding treatment options for millions of Americans living with chronic peripheral nerve pain.
At Eagle Rock Neuropathy and Pain Center in Idaho Falls, we're committed to offering our patients the most advanced pain relief technologies available. If you're struggling with neuropathic pain that hasn't responded to conservative treatments, wireless PNS may provide the relief you've been seeking.