Genicular Nerve Blocks for Chronic Knee Pain

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IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS ABOUT

Genicular Nerve Block

The use of prescribed medications is often ineffective in managing chronic osteoarthritis knee pain. As a therapeutic alternative for managing chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee, radiofrequency (RF) ablation can be applied to the articular nerve branches (genicular nerves).

However, there is a possibility that some older individuals with chronic conditions may not be suitable candidates for surgery even if they have advanced disease. Additionally, there are some patients who do not wish to undergo surgery and prefer non-surgical treatments. Radiation frequency ablation of the genicular nerves may be an effective alternative to surgery in these patients. In order to relieve pain and restore function, a nerve supply can be cut to a painful structure.

To learn more about our hillsboro genicular nerve block treatment services, give us a call at 469-562-4188 or contact us online today.

Genicular Nerve: What Are They?

A knee's nerves permit it to feel and move. There are three nerves that make up the genicular nerve: superior medial, inferior medial, and superior lateral. An irritated or damaged nerve can cause knee pain. In order to treat genicular nerves in the knee, Pain Management Fort Worth offers a comprehensive approach.

How does a Genicular Nerve Block Work?

  • A genicular nerve block may be appropriate for patients with chronic knee pain cleburne that does not respond to conservative treatment. In this procedure, nerve supply to a painful area is blocked in hopes of alleviating pain and restoring function.
  • Knee joints are innervated by various nerves such as the femoral, common peroneal, saphenous, tibial, and obturator nerves.
  • As the name suggests, these branches surround the knee joint and are commonly called genicular nerves.
  • A needle can be easily inserted under fluoroscopic guidance into a number of genicular nerves.
  • To determine whether a genicular nerve block will provide adequate relief to patients, a diagnostic genicular nerve block can be performed.
  • During a genicular nerve block, local anesthetic is injected through small needles to temporarily block these nerves.
  • Live X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) ensures efficient needle placement. The procedure generally takes between five and ten minutes.

    • General Considerations

    Radiofrequency ablation therapy and genicular nerve blocks were initially described as methods for treating severe chronic knee pain. Recently, an expanded version of the block technique was introduced under ultrasound guidance to provide analgesia following knee surgery. The strength of the quadriceps muscle is preserved when only the sensory branches are targeted to the knee joint.

    Consequently, this novel analgesic technique can be used as an alternative to femoral nerve and adductor canal blocks when these procedures are not indicated or desirable. A genicular nerve block was performed under fluoroscopy guidance for the first time. Besides providing additional visualization of soft tissues and blood vessels that are essential to identifying the injection site, ultrasound facilitates the recognition of these landmarks. The available data on genicular nerve blocks in the context of perioperative procedures is limited; however, case series have shown promising outcomes. The effectiveness of this novel treatment for acute pain following total knee replacement is currently being investigated in clinical trials.

    The Purpose Of A Genicular Nerve Block Is To Relieve Pain

    The purpose of a genicular nerve block is twofold:

  • When conservative treatments have not relieved chronic knee pain, such as physical therapy, over-the-counter NSAIDs, or injections of steroid knee joints, your healthcare provider may recommend a genicular nerve block. This treatment may result in the relief of pain. A variety of factors may contribute to chronic knee pain, including injury and osteoarthritis.
  • The genicular nerve block can help manage moderate to severe postoperative knee pain after knee surgery, such as a total knee replacement. Before surgery, your anesthesiologist or surgeon may perform this procedure. Additionally, they use peripheral nerve blocks in addition to general anesthesia.

    • How Does A Genicular Nerve Block Work?

    Pain Management in Dallas offers comprehensive treatment and diagnosis guidelines that can help individuals regain health.

  • A genicular nerve block is usually performed by a healthcare provider as an outpatient procedure for the management of pain. Consequently, you will not be admitted to a hospital for the procedure and will be able to return home afterward.
  • Generally, a genicular nerve block will result in the following symptoms: On a procedure table, you will lie on your back.
  • In order to slightly elevate your affected knee, a provider will place a small pillow under it.
  • A mild sedative may be administered through an IV line in your arm if you wish to relax.
  • The provider will use an antiseptic solution to clean your knee skin. In order to numb the area where the nerve block will be performed, a local anesthetic injection will be given to you.
  • The needle may cause you to feel a pinch or discomfort as it enters your skin.
  • A provider may use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, in order to determine the precise location of an injection.
  • The medication will then be injected into the affected nerve(s) as close to the site as possible.
  • The medication will take effect after you have undergone the procedure. Approximately five to ten minutes are required to complete the procedure.

    • Complications

    The risk of complications is extremely low, especially when injections are performed with precision needle positioning. Aseptic precautions can prevent septic arthritis. Generally, local anaesthetics do not cause severe allergic reactions. Pain flare-ups following surgical procedures are not uncommon, and may be treated with pain medications. Several neurological complications have been reported, including paraesthesia and numbness. Underlying skin can become numb following radiofrequency treatment. Due to the strict aseptic conditions under which the procedure is performed and the specific nature of the injections, the incidence of infection is low. Richardson Pain Management specializes in providing comprehensive care for patients with genicular nerve blocks.

    You may benefit from genicular nerve blocks if you suffer from chronic knee pain. The results vary considerably between individuals, however. Ask your pain doctor in Dallas about the genicular nerve block injection if you are concerned about receiving it. In case of questions, please do not hesitate to contact them.

    Give us a call at 469-562-4188 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment for genicular nerve block treatment in lancaster, TX and the surrounding areas.

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