Bladder function is regulated by a group of nerves called the sacral nerve plexus, which also controls the function of the lower end of the bowel – the rectum. PTNS involves using a thin acupuncture-like needle inserted through the skin above the ankle to stimulate these nerves through gentle electrical impulses (neurostimulation). The neurostimulation results in more functional bladder and/or rectal activity.

PTNS is an outpatient treatment for conditions affecting the bladder and the bowel such as:

  • overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms which include urinary frequency (passing urine frequently), urgency (having to rush to the toilet to pass urine), urge incontinence (leaking urine when experiencing urgency), and nocturia (waking up at night to pass urine)
  • non-obstructive voiding dysfunction (VD) – difficulty emptying the bladder satisfactorily
  • faecal incontinence (FI) – suboptimal control over passing wind and faeces.

All of these conditions can affect quality of life.

For more information on PTNS or the treatment options for overactive bladder, please refer to the the Patient Information page.