Nerve Stimulator Reduced Chronic Pain Over Three Years

A new study tracked patients using a peripheral nerve stimulator, finding durable pain relief and fewer medical visits.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Arthritis

A close-up view of a sleek, white ceramic and silver medical electronic component resting on textured grey fabric. — A recent study published in the journal Pain Physician indicates that the Freedom Peripheral Nerve Stimulator provides durable, long-term pain relief for chronic patients. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do clinical studies on medical devices increase your trust in new treatments for chronic pain?

The journal Pain Physician recently published a study showing that patients using the Freedom Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) system experienced significant, long-term relief from chronic pain. The findings suggest that real-world use of the device may help patients manage their condition while decreasing the need for additional pain interventions.

Why it matters

This study is significant because it examines whether outcomes from controlled trials hold up in real-world clinical practice, where patients often face diverse challenges. By demonstrating a reduction in medical visits and pain management interventions, the research highlights a potential pathway for improving long-term care management and quality of life.

A study of 175 patients in a retrospective review and 953 in a national claims analysis found an 80% reduction in pain scores at 24 months, with benefits lasting through 36 months. Researchers reported no serious adverse events, though the findings remain observational in nature.

The players

Pain Physician

A peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes research on the practice and science of pain management.

Curonix

A medical technology company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, that develops peripheral nerve stimulation devices for pain relief.

The details

The Freedom PNS system utilizes high-frequency electromagnetic coupling to deliver nerve stimulation. The device consists of a two-component neurostimulator and an externally worn transmitter, which functions alongside software that allows for personalized stimulation programming. This system is designed to intercept pain signals before they reach the brain.

September 28, 2026: Publication of the PNS IMPACT study in Pain Physician.
24 months: Significant reductions in pain and healthcare utilization were first observed.
36 months: Patients maintained durable pain reduction observed throughout the study period.

Health Landscape

This research follows the pattern set by the PNS IMPACT clinical study to validate how neurostimulation fits into the current standard of care for chronic pain. It underscores a shift toward integrating long-term, non-pharmacological interventions into the broader treatment landscape.

If you are currently managing chronic pain, these findings suggest that non-pharmacological neurostimulation may be worth discussing with your physician to see if it fits your specific care plan. Tracking your pain levels and any changes in healthcare usage can help you prepare for that conversation.

The takeaway

The study highlights that peripheral nerve stimulation may provide durable, long-term pain management without requiring regular surgical revisions or heavy medication use. If you are interested in this technology, consult your pain specialist about the candidacy requirements for neurostimulation therapy.