Chronic knee pain can significantly impact your quality of life, often making everyday activities difficult. For those exploring non-surgical solutions, genicular nerve ablation offers an innovative treatment option. Using advanced technology, this minimally invasive procedure targets pain at its source, helping many patients regain mobility and reduce dependency on medication. Here's everything you need to know about a radiofrequency ablation knee joint procedure.
What are genicular nerve ablations?
Genicular nerve ablation, also known as a radiofrequency ablation knee joint procedure, uses heat generated by radio waves to disrupt pain signals from nerves surrounding the knee.
Common Conditions Treated With Genicular Nerve Ablation
This specialized RFA pain management technique is primarily used in cases where knee pain persists despite other treatments. Commonly treated conditions include:
- Knee Osteoarthritis: RFA can significantly reduce pain in patients experiencing degeneration of knee cartilage.
- Chronic Post-Surgical Knee Pain: Patients who still experience discomfort after knee replacement surgery can find relief through this method.
- General Chronic Knee Pain: Ideal for those with persistent pain unrelated to a specific injury or condition.
Who Is a Good Candidate for This Treatment?
Those who benefit most include individuals:
- Diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis or chronic knee pain
- Seeking an alternative to surgery or long-term medication use
- Who have not responded to treatments like physical therapy, injections, or bracing
A consultation with experienced Los Angeles doctors is necessary to determine if this treatment is right for you.
How the Genicular Nerve Ablation Procedure Works
This outpatient procedure is straightforward and typically lasts under an hour:
- Preparation: The area around the knee is cleaned, and local anesthesia is applied to ensure comfort.
- Guidance: Using fluoroscopic imaging, the doctor guides small needles to the precise nerve locations near the knee joint.
- Testing: A brief electrical stimulation confirms the correct nerves responsible for the pain.
- Ablation: Radiofrequency energy is delivered to the target nerves, disrupting their ability to transmit pain signals to the brain.
Benefits of Genicular Nerve Ablation
Patients often choose this treatment because of its distinct advantages:
- Non-Surgical Relief: Offers an effective alternative without the need for surgery.
- Minimally Invasive: Reduced recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
- Pain-Free Functionality: Improved mobility and reduced reliance on medication.
- Long-Lasting Results: Relief can last from six months to a year or longer.
- Frequently Reproducible: The procedure can be repeated if pain returns.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after this procedure is relatively simple. Most patients can resume light activities within 24 hours and return to their daily routines in a few days. It's normal to experience mild bruising or soreness at the treatment site, but these symptoms typically fade quickly.
Many people notice significant pain relief within 2–3 weeks as the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals begin to function normally again.
Take the Next Step Toward Living Pain-Free
For those suffering from chronic knee pain, genicular nerve ablation can offer a safe and effective solution. If you're exploring non-surgical options for knee pain, consult with our Los Angeles doctors to determine if a radiofrequency ablation knee joint treatment is the solution you've been seeking. Contact Interventional Pain Doctors today and take the first step toward lasting relief!