A Genicular Nerve Block - How Can It Help With Knee Pain?

A genicular nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure wherein local anaesthetics are injected to obstruct the nerves that cause pain in the knee. This procedure helps to 

• Determine whether pathologic changes and swelling within the joints is the reason for excruciating knee pain. 
• Confirm whether the pain in the knee responds well to treatment procedures. 

A genicular nerve block is used to treat a number of chronic pain causing conditions such as:

1. Degenerative diseases of the joint
2. Patients suffering from chronic pain but cannot undergo surgery
3. Pain that is caused as a result of partial or complete replacement of the knee

Role of Genicular Nerve Block -

1. Helps to determine the location of pain
2. Enables patients to regain mobility and body vitality. This happens because patients due to extreme knee pain halt activities that might further cause stress and pain. 
3. It is an effective diagnostic procedure.

What should I expect during a knee genicular nerve block?
A successful genicular nerve block starts with conscientious pre-operative care. Your doctor’s instructions may vary depending on your individual health and circumstances, but in general, you can expect the following before, during, and after a genicular knee block. If this advice differs from your doctor’s, always follow your doctor’s advice first and foremost.

A genicular nerve block is a diagnostic procedure therefore, it will only help to alleviate pain for a couple of hours and not cure it entirely. The effects will last anywhere between eight to twenty-four hours after which the patient’s knee pain returns.

On getting positive results from a genicular nerve block, the doctor will recommended to the patient to undergo radiofrequency ablation which is a more long term solution for the pain.

What happens after the genicular nerve block treatment?
You will be asked not to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure and you must have a driver drive you home from our office. You may experience pain and some soreness in the injection site lasting a day or two. The anesthetic should give you immediate relief while it may take the steroid 3-5 days to fully kick in. 

How long will the pain relief last?
The duration of the pain relief will vary from patient to patient. It can last from only a few days to a matter of months. Repeated injections may be necessary to manage the pain. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!