Did you know that chronic knee pain affects nearly 25% of adults in the United States, often limiting their ability to walk, work, and enjoy daily activities? For many, the pain persists even after surgery or years of medication use.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our board-certified pain management specialists provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments designed to relieve pain and restore mobility. Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we specialize in evidence-based care that targets the source of pain, helping patients move freely again. If chronic knee pain has been affecting your quality of life, we invite you to schedule a consultation today.
Knee pain doesn’t have to control your life. Let’s explore how a modern treatment called Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) can make a lasting difference.
Understanding Chronic Knee Pain
Chronic knee pain is defined as discomfort lasting longer than three months, often due to injury, arthritis, or surgical complications. It can feel like stiffness, burning, or aching that worsens with movement or weather changes.
Common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis: Gradual cartilage wear causes joint inflammation and stiffness.
- Post-surgical pain: Persistent discomfort after knee replacement or arthroscopy.
- Nerve damage or entrapment: Irritation of nerves around the knee joint.
- Tendon and ligament injuries: Such as ACL or meniscus damage that never fully heals.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our specialists use ultrasound-guided imaging and EMG/NCV studies to locate the exact pain source before recommending treatment. This ensures precision, safety, and effective long-term results.
What Is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)?
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is an advanced form of neuromodulation therapy that uses gentle electrical impulses to alter how nerves communicate pain signals to the brain. Unlike medications that mask discomfort or surgeries that remove tissue, this approach focuses on treating pain at its source, the nerve pathway itself.
How It Works
A very thin electrode is carefully positioned near the targeted nerve using imaging guidance during a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
- The device delivers mild electrical signals that help interrupt abnormal pain communication.
- The stimulation retrains nerve activity to restore more normal pain processing.
- Intensity can be adjusted to suit comfort and activity levels.
At Grand Rapids Pain, we offer advanced neuromodulation and nerve-targeted therapies, including Peripheral Nerve Stimulation techniques, to help individuals with chronic knee pain, post-surgical pain, or nerve-related discomfort. The trial neuromodulation procedure typically takes about 20 minutes and involves no incisions or hospital stay.
Why PNS Is Effective for Chronic Knee Pain
Chronic knee pain often persists because the nerves continue sending pain signals even after tissue recovery. By modulating these nerves, PNS helps restore balance and reduce abnormal firing.
Clinical studies have shown meaningful pain reductions and long-term benefits for many patients, including:
- Improved mobility and flexibility.
- Better sleep quality.
- Reduced dependence on medications.
Our specialists often combine neuromodulation with physical therapy or targeted injections to enhance results and promote long-term healing.
The PNS Trial Process: Safe, Simple, and Personalized
One of the key advantages of this therapy is its trial period, allowing patients to experience the benefits before proceeding with a longer-term system.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Consultation and Assessment: A thorough evaluation determines if you’re a suitable candidate.
- Temporary Lead Placement: A fine wire is placed under the skin near the affected nerve.
- Trial Period: Over 5–7 days, you test the device during normal activities.
- Evaluation: If you experience significant pain relief and better function, a more durable system may be recommended.
This trial ensures the treatment is both safe and effective for your specific condition.
Benefits of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Over Traditional Treatments
1. Medications
Pain medications may offer short-term relief but often come with side effects and dependency risks. They don’t address the root cause of nerve-driven pain.
2. Steroid Injections
Cortisone or steroid injections can reduce inflammation temporarily but may weaken tissue with frequent use, and their benefits fade over time.
3. Surgery
Surgical options can repair structural problems but involve longer recovery, possible complications, and may not relieve nerve-based pain.
4. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)
PNS is drug-free, reversible, and minimally invasive. It directly targets nerves that carry pain signals, promoting natural pain regulation. Many patients begin noticing relief within days and return to daily activities quickly.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our specialists may recommend neuromodulation for patients who respond well to diagnostic nerve blocks but seek a longer-lasting, non-surgical solution.
Long-Term Outcomes and Quality of Life Improvements
Patients treated with neuromodulation therapies often experience:
- Noticeable pain reduction and improved mobility.
- Enhanced range of motion and function.
- Improved sleep and mood.
- Reduced reliance on medications.
Even patients with knee pain after surgery have found success using this method when other therapies no longer provide relief. By addressing the nerve pathways directly, PNS supports natural healing and restores mobility.
Rediscover Movement and Comfort With Grand Rapids Pain
Chronic knee pain doesn’t have to define your life. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation offers a safe, minimally invasive way to relieve pain and restore movement when other treatments haven’t worked. At Grand Rapids Pain, our board-certified interventional specialists use the latest neuromodulation technologies to help patients achieve lasting relief and independence.
Take the next step toward pain-free living today. Call (616) 727-0083 or book an Appointment to discuss your chronic knee pain treatment options with our expert team in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a peripheral nerve stimulator feel like?
Most patients describe a mild, comfortable tingling that replaces pain sensations.
How long does the device stay in place?
Trial systems last about a week; long-term devices can provide support for months or years, depending on your plan.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Yes. Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover approved neuromodulation therapies at Grand Rapids Pain.
Can this help with knee pain after surgery?
Yes. Neuromodulation is often effective for persistent post-surgical or nerve-related knee pain.
Is the procedure painful?
No. It’s performed under local anesthesia and is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.
