Genicular Nerve Stimulation (GNS) for Chronic Knee Pain

Genicular nerve stimulation is an advanced neuromodulation therapy used to treat chronic knee pain that has not responded to other treatments. This procedure involves placing a small device near the genicular nerves, which carry pain signals from the knee. The device sends mild electrical impulses that help block or modify pain signals before they reach the brain. Unlike injections or ablation, this therapy provides adjustable and long-term pain control, making it a promising option for patients with persistent knee pain.

What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?

Genicular nerve stimulation may be used for:

Chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis
Persistent pain after knee replacement surgery
Post-injury knee pain
Neuropathic knee pain
Knee pain not relieved by medications, therapy, or injections

How Does Genicular Nerve Stimulation Work?

This therapy works by modulating pain signals rather than destroying nerves:

The genicular nerves transmit pain signals from the knee
A small electrode is placed near these nerves
The device delivers controlled electrical pulses
These pulses alter how the brain perceives pain, reducing discomfort

Because the stimulation is adjustable, treatment can be customized to each patient’s needs.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Evaluation to confirm chronic knee pain
A trial stimulation may be performed to test effectiveness

During the Procedure

Minimally invasive procedure using imaging guidance
Small leads are placed near the genicular nerves
A pulse generator may be implanted under the skin
Procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes

After the Procedure

Same-day discharge in most cases
Mild soreness at implant site
Device settings can be adjusted for optimal relief

Benefits of Genicular Nerve Stimulation

✔ Provides targeted pain relief without destroying nerves
✔ Adjustable and customizable therapy
✔ Minimally invasive with reversible option
✔ Effective for chronic, difficult-to-treat knee pain
✔ Can reduce dependence on medications
✔ May delay or avoid knee surgery

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have chronic knee pain lasting 6 months or more
Have not improved with medications, injections, or physical therapy
Have pain after knee surgery or arthritis
Want a non-surgical, reversible treatment option
Experience relief during a trial stimulation phase

A specialist evaluation is required to determine eligibility.

Risks & Side Effects

Genicular nerve stimulation is generally safe, but possible risks include:

Temporary soreness or swelling
Infection at implant site (rare)
Lead movement or device issues
Need for device adjustment

Serious complications are uncommon when performed by experienced specialists.

When Is This Treatment Recommended?

Genicular nerve stimulation is typically recommended when:

Conservative treatments and injections have failed
Pain is chronic and significantly affecting daily life
Radiofrequency ablation is not effective or not suitable
Patients want to avoid or delay surgery

👉 It is considered an advanced treatment option after RFA and before or instead of surgery

Recovery & Results

Recovery is typically quick with minimal downtime
Many patients notice improvement soon after activation
Pain relief can be adjusted and optimized over time
Long-term relief is possible with proper device management

This therapy is designed for ongoing, customizable pain control.

FAQs

Is genicular nerve stimulation the same as RFA?

No — RFA destroys nerve function temporarily, while stimulation modifies pain signals without destroying the nerve.

Will I feel the stimulation?

Some patients feel mild tingling, while others feel no sensation depending on settings.

Is the procedure reversible?

Yes, the device can be adjusted or removed if needed.

How long does the device last?

Battery life varies but can last several years.

Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.

Book an appointment here to learn more or call us at 913-339-9437 to schedule now.

Some Of The Other Surgical Procedures We Provide:

FAQs

What type of pain does GNS help with?

GNS helps relieve chronic knee pain, including pain from osteoarthritis and post-surgical discomfort.

Who can benefit from GNS?

Individuals with chronic knee pain unresponsive to conservative treatments, those not ideal for knee replacement, and those with persistent pain after total knee arthroplasty.

Is GNS suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery?

Yes, it is an option for people who are not ideal candidates for knee replacement surgery.

What are the advantages of GNS?

It is minimally invasive, reduces medication dependence, allows quick recovery, and provides long-term relief.