Knee replacement surgery is often seen as the final step toward a pain-free life. However, for some patients, pain continues long after recovery. Studies show that up to 20% of individuals experience persistent knee pain even after surgery, affecting mobility, sleep, and quality of life.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our board-certified pain management specialists in Grand Rapids, Michigan, specialize in identifying and treating chronic or post-surgical knee pain using advanced, minimally invasive techniques. Our team focuses on restoring movement and independence without unnecessary surgery. If you’re still experiencing pain after knee surgery, we can help.
Let’s explore why knee pain may persist after surgery and what innovative, non-surgical options are available for lasting relief.
Understanding Why Knee Pain Persists After Surgery
For many patients, having knee pain after surgery can feel discouraging, especially when the procedure was expected to fix the problem. Persistent or returning pain doesn’t necessarily mean the surgery failed; it can result from multiple causes that need to be correctly diagnosed.
Common Reasons for Pain After Knee Replacement
- Nerve Damage or Irritation: During surgery, small peripheral nerves can become irritated or trapped in scar tissue, leading to ongoing pain or numbness.
- Implant-Related Issues: Although rare, joint implants may loosen, wear down, or shift slightly, causing discomfort and inflammation.
- Soft Tissue Inflammation: Persistent swelling in surrounding muscles, tendons, or ligaments can generate pain and stiffness.
- Scar Tissue Formation: Internal scar tissue, also known as arthrofibrosis, can restrict movement and increase pain.
- Referred or Neuropathic Pain: Pain may originate from other regions like the hip or lower back, but present around the knee.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our physicians use ultrasound-guided imaging, nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCV), and other advanced diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the true source of your pain before recommending treatment. This ensures every plan is tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Why Traditional Treatments May Not Be Enough
If you’ve already tried physical therapy, pain medications, or multiple injections, you’re not alone. Many patients with pain after knee replacement find that conventional treatments only provide temporary relief.
Limitations of Common Approaches
- Pain Medications: Oral pain relievers can mask pain temporarily but often bring side effects and risk dependency with long-term use.
- Steroid Injections: Helpful for inflammation but not ideal for chronic or nerve-related pain. Repeated use can damage joint tissue.
- Revision Surgery: Another operation is not always the solution, especially if the pain is nerve-based or caused by scar tissue. Revision surgeries can increase recovery time and may not fully resolve the issue.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our approach emphasizes non-surgical knee treatments that focus on addressing the pain at its source rather than temporarily covering symptoms.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: A Non-Surgical Path to Relief
When chronic knee pain continues after surgery, the issue often lies in the nerves that send pain signals to the brain. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) offers a way to retrain these nerves and reduce pain without another invasive procedure.
How Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Works
PNS is an FDA-approved neuromodulation therapy that gently interrupts abnormal nerve activity using mild electrical pulses.
- A very thin electrode is placed near the affected nerve through a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
- The system delivers gentle stimulation that changes how nerves send pain messages.
- Over time, this retrains the nervous system to reduce pain signals naturally.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our experts perform this procedure with ultrasound-guided precision for safety and accuracy. The entire trial process takes about 20 minutes and requires no incisions or hospitalization.
The PNS Trial: A Safe and Personalized Approach
One of the most reassuring aspects of PNS is that you can try it before committing to a long-term device. This ensures that each patient only proceeds if they experience real improvement.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Evaluation: Our specialists perform a full consultation to confirm whether you’re a good candidate.
- Trial Procedure: A temporary, flexible wire is placed near the target nerve under local anesthesia.
- Testing Period: You’ll use the device for about 5–7 days at home to monitor pain relief during normal activity.
- Follow-Up: If you experience meaningful relief, a longer-term neuromodulation plan can be created for lasting results.
This trial process helps patients regain hope and confidence before making any long-term decisions about treatment.
The Benefits of PNS Over Additional Surgery
PNS bridges the gap between temporary pain relief methods and major surgeries. It’s designed for people who want to avoid another operation but still need meaningful, lasting results.
Why Many Patients Choose Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
- Non-Surgical and Reversible: No incisions or permanent implants are required.
- Drug-Free: Eliminates the need for ongoing opioid or anti-inflammatory medication.
- Fast Recovery: Most patients return to daily activities within days.
- Targeted Relief: PNS addresses the nerve responsible for pain rather than the joint itself.
- Restores Function: Patients report better mobility, sleep, and quality of life.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our pain management doctors have extensive experience using neuromodulation therapies to relieve persistent pain safely and effectively.
Real Results: Long-Term Relief From Chronic Knee Pain
For patients who once thought relief was impossible, Peripheral Nerve Stimulation has become a life-changing therapy. While individual results vary, many patients experience:
- Noticeable pain reduction and improved range of motion
- Increased ability to walk, exercise, and perform daily tasks
- Reduced dependence on medications
- Improved mood and quality of life
Even for those dealing with pain behind the knee after total knee replacement, PNS can target the specific nerves involved and provide measurable improvement. By combining neuromodulation with complementary treatments like targeted injections or physical therapy, our clinic helps patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
A Second Chance at Lasting Knee Pain Relief
If knee pain continues after surgery, it doesn’t have to define your future. Advanced, non-surgical options such as Peripheral Nerve Stimulation can reduce pain and restore daily mobility without another invasive procedure. At Grand Rapids Pain, our experienced team offers compassionate, expert care for patients dealing with chronic post-surgical knee pain.
Call (616) 727-0083 or book an appointment today to start your journey toward renewed movement and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes pain behind the knee after total knee replacement?
It may stem from nerve irritation, scar tissue, or soft tissue strain. A detailed diagnostic assessment helps identify the cause and guide treatment.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?
If you have knee pain lasting more than three months after surgery that hasn’t responded to standard care, you may qualify.
Is the PNS trial painful?
No. It’s performed under local anesthesia, and most patients describe the sensation as a gentle tingling.
How long does the relief last?
Many patients report significant pain improvement for months or years with maintenance and proper follow-up.
Is it covered by insurance?
Yes. Most major insurance providers, including Medicare, cover approved neuromodulation procedures.
