Genicular Nerve Block
A numbing injection around the nerves of the knee to test whether they are carrying your chronic knee pain.
What Is Genicular Nerve Block?
The genicular nerves carry pain signals from the knee joint. A genicular nerve block places a small amount of numbing medicine around several of these nerves. If your knee pain improves significantly afterward, it suggests you may benefit from genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation for longer-lasting relief.
Conditions It May Help
- Chronic knee osteoarthritis
- Ongoing knee pain after knee replacement
- People who are not candidates for, or wish to delay, knee surgery
How It Is Done
The skin is cleaned and numbed. Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound, Dr. Rema guides thin needles to the nerves around the knee. The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
What to Expect
Your knee may feel numb for a few hours. You will be asked to track your pain and activity afterward, since this response guides the next step. Most people resume normal activity the same or next day.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Temporary soreness or bruising. Uncommon risks include infection, bleeding and nerve irritation. Dr. Rema will review your medical history and medications, including blood thinners, before your procedure.
Take the Next Step
Call 845-245-6033 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rema at Hudson Valley Pain Management, 33 Grand Street, Suite 33A, Kingston, NY 12401. Results vary from person to person, and Dr. Rema will review the benefits and risks for your situation.