NCT06004882 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation of Genicular Nerves Versus Conventional Therapy With Intra-articular Steroid Injection for Chronic Knee Pain: A Prospective, Randomized Pilot Study
What this study is about
To compare the effects of the following types of therapy on knee range of motion when given to patients with chronic knee pain: * A standard steroid injection * Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) therapy in combination with a standard steroid injection * PNS therapy in combination with a placebo injection Steroid injections are given directly into the knee joints and are considered to be the standard therapy for chronic knee pain. In this study, the injection will be made of the steroid drugs triamcinolone and bupivacaine.
View original scientific description
To compare the effects of the following types of therapy on knee range of motion when given to patients with chronic knee pain: * A standard steroid injection * Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) therapy in combination with a standard steroid injection * PNS therapy in combination with a placebo injection Steroid injections are given directly into the knee joints and are considered to be the standard therapy for chronic knee pain. In this study, the injection will be made of the steroid drugs triamcinolone and bupivacaine.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patients diagnosed with chronic knee pain (baseline pain score \>=4), seen at Pain Management Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center; if patient has bilateral knee pain, the side with the more severe knee pain will be treated first and counted towards the primary and secondary endpoints
- Patients between ages 18-85 years old
- Patient signed informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Patients with cognitive dysfunction or without capacity to consent
- Patient with recent history (\<6 months) of drug or alcohol abuse
- Patients with open skin lesion or undergoing antibiotic therapy for local for systemic infection
- Patients with allergies to local anesthesia, steroids, or adhesives
- Patients who are on opioids for reasons other than knee pain
Where
- Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations