Understanding and Managing Nerve Pain After Knee Replacement Surgery
Experiencing continued pain after knee replacement can be frustrating. Unfortunately, nerve pain is an all-too-common yet often overlooked cause of persistent pain after surgery. This is because, while nerve pain can be quite pronounced to the patient, both the clinical examination and X-rays are often fairly normal. It’s easy for a knee surgeon to miss, especially in a fast-paced clinic setting, unless he knows to look for it. The good news is that most cases can be effectively managed without the need for further surgery.
Treatment Options for Nerve Pain
1. Ice Massage
Ice massage is a simple but effective way to calm hypersensitive nerves and reduce pain.
2. Topical Treatments
|
Capsaicin Cream Capsaicin, derived from hot peppers, helps desensitize nerves by depleting pain-transmitting chemicals over time. Buy Capsaicin Cream (HSA/FSA Eligible) |
 |
|
Diclofenac Gel (NSAID Anti-Inflammatory Cream) Diclofenac is a topical NSAID that reduces inflammation and nerve irritation, making it helpful for nerve pain aggravated by swelling. Buy Diclofenac Gel (HSA/FSA Eligible) |
 |
3. Oral Medications
|
Corganics CBD (Physician Recommended) A physician-exclusive CBD formulation designed for neuropathic pain relief. THC-free and well tolerated. Buy Corganics CBD |
 |
|
Nervive (Over-the-Counter Nerve Support Supplement) Nervive contains nerve-supporting nutrients like alpha-lipoic acid and B-vitamins to promote nerve health and function. Buy Nervive |
 |
|
Gabapentin & Lyrica (Prescription-Only Nerve Medications) These medications stabilize nerve activity and reduce hypersensitivity. Best for moderate to severe nerve pain. Prescription required |
 |
4. TENS Units
|
AUVON TENS Unit An affordable, simple TENS device for blocking nerve signals and reducing pain. Buy AUVON TENS Unit |
 |
|
iReliev TENS + EMS Unit Combines TENS for pain relief with EMS for muscle stimulation — great for nerve recovery. Buy iReliev TENS + EMS Unit |
 |
5. Advanced Interventions
Genicular Nerve Ablation
Genicular nerve ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency to disrupt nerve signals and reduce chronic knee pain.
Cryoneurolysis (Cryoablation)
Involves freezing the affected nerves to temporarily stop pain signals. Relief can last several months.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulators
These implanted devices send pulses to nearby nerves to interfere with pain transmission, helping with chronic or refractory nerve pain.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing continued pain after knee replacement, you’re not alone. It’s a common reason for referral to my practice. There are effective treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, available that can significantly reduce pain and help you achieve the results you were looking for the first time around.