mPNS for Knee Osteoarthritis
mPNS for Knee Osteoarthritis
Chronic pain in the shoulder, neck, or back is persistent pain lasting months or longer that limits movement and quality of life. mPNS (magnetic peripheral nerve stimulation) is a noninvasive neuromodulation therapy that targets peripheral nerves to reduce pain and restore function.
What is knee osteoarthritis and how it works
Knee Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease of the knee characterized by progressive cartilage loss, bone remodeling, synovial inflammation, and changes in surrounding ligaments and muscles.
Pathophysiology: Mechanical stress, cartilage breakdown, subchondral bone changes, and inflammatory mediators lead to altered joint biomechanics and sensitization of peripheral nerves that transmit pain
Common symptoms
- Persistent or activity-related knee pain (aching, sharp, or burning)
- Morning stiffness or stiffness after periods of inactivity
- Reduced range of motion and difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Swelling, crepitus (grinding), and episodes of instability or buckling
- Pain with walking, climbing stairs, standing from a seated position, or squatting
Statistics and prevalence
Knee OA is one of the most common types of osteoarthritis worldwide. Prevalence increases with age, obesity, prior joint injury, and certain occupations. Many population studies report a significant portion of adults over 50 show radiographic or symptomatic knee OA; symptomatic OA prevalence is lower than radiographic changes but remains a leading cause of disability in older adults
How knee OA affects daily life
Limits mobility and independence — walking, climbing stairs, household tasks, and recreational activities become difficult
Reduces exercise tolerance and may lead to deconditioning and weight gain, which worsen symptoms
Interferes with work, social activities, sleep, and overall quality of life
Emotional impact: frustration, anxiety, and reduced participation in valued activities
Common treatment options
Self-management and lifestyle
Weight loss, low-impact aerobic exercise, and strength training (quadriceps/hip muscles)
Activity modification and assistive devices (canes, braces)
Conservative medical care:
Physical therapy, exercise programs, and targeted manual therapy
Analgesics and NSAIDs for short-term symptom control (use under clinician guidance)
Topical NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or topical analgesics for localized relief
Intra-articular injections (corticosteroid for short-term relief; hyaluronic acid in select patients)
Interventional options
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or other orthobiologic injections (variable evidence)
Viscosupplementation, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation for selected patients
Advanced Interventions / Multidisciplinary
Knee arthroplasty (partial or total) for end-stage disease with severe pain or functional limitation
What is mPNS and how it works
mPNS delivers focused magnetic pulses over peripheral nerves that innervate the knee region to modulate pain signaling non-invasively.
Mechanism: Magnetic stimulation alters peripheral nerve excitability and reduces peripheral and central sensitization that contribute to chronic OA pain. By interrupting maladaptive pain signaling, mPNS can lower pain intensity and improve neuromuscular function without systemic drugs or injections.
How mPNS can help knee osteoarthritis
Targeted pain reduction that can enhance participation in rehabilitation and exercise programs
Improved walking tolerance, range of motion, and functional performance when combined with physical therapy
Low systemic side-effect profile compared with long-term oral medications
Non-invasive alternative or adjunct for patients seeking to delay or avoid injections or surgery
Typical treatment course and what to expect
- Clinical evaluation to confirm OA diagnosis, identify contributing factors, and screen for contraindications (e.g., certain implanted electronic devices).
- mPNS is delivered in a series of brief outpatient sessions; protocols differ by clinic.
- Many patients report gradual pain reduction and improved function over days to weeks, especially when mPNS is paired with exercise and weight-management strategies. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild (temporary local discomfort).
Who may benefit
Patients with symptomatic knee OA who have incomplete relief from conservative care or who want a non-invasive adjunct to improve pain and function.
Candidates must be screened by a clinician for suitability and contraindications
mPNS for knee osteoarthritis : Quick FAQ
Is mPNS painful?
Most patients find the stimulation tolerable; sensations are typically mild
How quickly will I improve?
Many notice gradual improvement over days–weeks; individual results vary.
Does mPNS replace joint replacement?
No — mPNS is an adjunctive therapy and does not preclude surgery if needed later.
Schedule an evaluation
Consult your orthopedic or our specialist to see if mPNS is appropriate for your knee osteoarthritis and to develop a personalized treatment plan.