Geniculate Nerve Block Treatment for Knee Arthritis in Frisco, TX

A Geniculate Nerve Block is a minimally invasive procedure used to manage knee pain by targeting the small sensory nerves that transmit pain signals from the knee joint to the brain. These nerves, known as the genicular nerves, are responsible for carrying pain sensations from the surrounding structures of the knee. During the procedure, a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with an anti-inflammatory medication, is injected near these nerves to interrupt pain transmission. The result is often a significant reduction in discomfort, which can help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

This treatment is often considered for individuals who have persistent knee pain that has not responded well to conservative measures such as medication, physical therapy, or injections into the joint itself. It may also be recommended for those who are not candidates for surgical procedures or who wish to delay knee replacement surgery. By blocking the genicular nerves, the procedure allows patients to experience pain relief without altering the structure of the knee. The effect can be temporary or long-lasting depending on the individual’s condition and response to the treatment.

The specialists at OmniSpine Pain Management use this approach as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. In some cases, the initial block helps determine whether the nerves are the primary source of pain. If successful, longer-lasting techniques may be used to provide extended relief. Through careful evaluation and precise technique, the procedure offers a safe and effective option for managing chronic knee pain.

A Geniculate Nerve Block is performed to reduce chronic knee pain that has not improved with other conservative treatments. This type of pain is often associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, previous knee surgeries, or injury to the joint. When inflammation or structural damage in the knee persists despite other therapies, the genicular nerves can continue to transmit pain signals even after the primary condition has been addressed. By temporarily blocking these signals, the injection can bring significant comfort and help restore daily function. The procedure is frequently considered for patients who wish to avoid or postpone surgical intervention, such as total knee replacement. It may also be used in individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery due to medical reasons or personal preference. In these cases, a Geniculate Nerve Block provides an alternative that can deliver meaningful pain relief without the downtime or risks associated with surgery.

The block also serves a diagnostic purpose. If the injection relieves pain effectively, it confirms that the genicular nerves are a major contributor to the discomfort. This information can guide further treatment planning, including the potential use of radiofrequency ablation for longer-term results.

The Geniculate Nerve Block works by interrupting the transmission of pain signals from the knee to the brain. Small sensory nerves around the knee joint, called genicular nerves, are responsible for carrying these signals. When injected with a local anesthetic, the communication between the nerves and the central nervous system is disrupted temporarily. This interruption reduces or eliminates the perception of pain, allowing the joint to move more freely and comfortably. The procedure is typically performed under image guidance to ensure precision. Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound, the physician identifies the specific points around the knee where the genicular nerves are located. Once the sites are confirmed, the anesthetic is carefully injected to bathe the nerves and block their pain transmission. The treatment usually takes only a few minutes to complete, and most patients report immediate or near-immediate relief afterward.

While the effects of the anesthetic may wear off within hours or days, the pain relief can last longer in some cases, especially if inflammation in the area decreases. For those who respond well to the initial block, a longer-lasting form of treatment such as radiofrequency ablation can be considered.

A Geniculate Nerve Block is most commonly used to treat chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, one of the leading conditions affecting the joint. This type of pain often persists even after conservative measures such as medication, physical therapy, or joint injections have been attempted. The procedure is also effective for patients who continue to experience pain following knee replacement surgery or other surgical interventions. It provides a way to control discomfort when structural issues have already been addressed, but nerve sensitivity remains.

Individuals with knee pain due to injury, trauma, or degenerative changes may also benefit from the treatment. Over time, these conditions can cause inflammation and nerve irritation, leading to persistent discomfort that interferes with daily life. The nerve block offers a targeted solution by addressing the pain pathway directly rather than focusing solely on the joint structure. This approach helps patients regain stability and comfort, especially when physical movement has become limited by pain.

At OmniSpine Pain Management, treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s underlying condition and response to prior therapies. By identifying whether the genicular nerves are responsible for ongoing pain, the team can determine whether the nerve block is likely to provide benefit. Through this personalized approach, the procedure has become an effective part of managing chronic knee pain and restoring mobility in patients seeking lasting relief.

Dr. Andrew Morchower at OmniSpine uses advanced image guidance to precisely target the knee arthritis with geniculate nerves. This allows for effective pain relief while minimizing side effects. In some cases, a successful nerve block can also help us determine if you might benefit from longer-lasting treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation, for more durable pain control. If you are struggling with chronic knee pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, a consultation with our expert team can help determine if a geniculate nerve block is appropriate for your condition. Our goal is to restore your quality of life through safe, effective, and patient-centered care.

Geniculate Nerve Block treatment is available at OmniSpine Pain Management. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are located at 8380 Warren Pkwy, Suite 100, Frisco, TX 75034. We are located at 8380 Warren Pkwy, Suite 100, Frisco, TX 75034. We serve patients from Frisco TX, Dallas TX, Plano TX, Richardson TX, and Carrollton TX.