What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation?

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small, implantable device to send mild electrical pulses to the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the knee. By modulating nerve activity, PNS can effectively reduce or even eliminate chronic knee pain.

Benefits of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

✔ Minimally Invasive – Requires only a small incision, leading to faster recovery.

✔ Drug-Free Pain Relief – Reduces or eliminates the need for opioids and pain medications.

✔ Customizable Therapy – Adjustable settings allow personalized pain management.

✔ Reversible Procedure – The implant can be removed if needed without permanent alterations.

Downsides of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

✔ Variable Response – Not all patients respond to peripheral nerve stimulation. You will undergo a trial implant first to see if you are a candidate.

✔ Large External Battery – The implant requires a large external battery that must be worn at all time in order to provide power to the implant. This is cumbersome for most patients.

✔ Expense– This is the most expensive option to treat knee pain.

Who is a Candidate for PNS?

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is ideal for individuals who:

• Suffer from chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis, nerve injury, or failed knee surgery.

• Have not found sufficient relief with medications, injections, or physical therapy.

• Are seeking a non-surgical, long-term pain management solution.

• Want to reduce their reliance on pain medications.

Knee Treatment Study Group Opinion

We recommend peripheral nerve stimulation only for patients who have failed all other options. The response to PNS is highly variable in the knee and it is the most expensive of the treatment options. The hardest part for patients is the need to wear a large external battery at all times to power the implant. This is very cumbersome for a majority of patients and limits long-term compliance with PNS use.