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I'm going to a pain clinic to help me get control of my knee pain. I have really bad osteoarthritis but I don't want surgery just yet. Some people in the clinic are trying Deepwave. How does this device work? Should I ask to try it, too?

Deepwave is a deep tissue pain therapy device. It is classified as a neuromodulation treatment. This means it interrupts the pain signals sent by the nerves to the spinal cord and then up to the brain.

It works by creating a low frequency electric field around the painful area. Two patches called electrodes are placed on either side of the affected tissue.

The electric field created between the two electrodes alters the balance of potassium and sodium. The result is that the nerve can't send pain messages to the brain. At the same time, scientists think that natural pain relieving chemicals called endorphins are released into the blood stream.

Pilot studies of Deepwave with a small number of patients over a short period of time have been successful. Patients have less pain and can use fewer pain relievers. Patients who have used this device are very pleased with the results. It appears to be a safe and effective treatment for knee OA.

Larger studies over a longer period of time are still needed before this treatment is offered to everyone. The people in your clinic may be part of a study. Ask your doctor if you might be a good candidate for this treatment.

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