Pain from knee arthritis or previous injury can persist because the nerves supplying the knee continue to send pain signals even when the main cause of inflammation has been treated. The genicular nerves are small branches around the knee that transmit these signals to the brain.
In radiofrequency ablation, your consultant uses ultrasound guidance to place very fine needles near these nerves. A brief test stimulation confirms the correct position before controlled radiofrequency energy is applied. This heat treatment interrupts the nervesâ ability to transmit pain signals while leaving nearby movement and strength nerves unaffected.
Because nerves can slowly regenerate over time, the benefit may lessen with time, however many get long term relief. The procedure can be repeated if necessary.
We usually would only carry this procedure out after a successful, but short lived, genicular nerve block
Genicular nerve RFA is usually carried out as a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic. Image guidance (X-ray or ultrasound) is used throughout to ensure accurate placement of the needles. Sedation is usually offered.
After the treatment, you will rest for a short time before going home the same day. Some mild discomfort or bruising around the knee is common for a few days. Improvement in pain typically develops gradually over the following weeks.
Driving advice: You should not drive that day if receiving any sedation. Our procedures do vary on whether it is possible to drive home yourself. Please seek advice from your consultant about driving advice. If you are seeing us for an injection and planning to drive, please check with us beforehand about whether it will be possible to drive yourself home afterwards.
At Wessex Pain Clinic we find that the best results come from combining medical treatments with active rehabilitation. Procedures are often most effective when paired with physiotherapy, movement-based exercise, and â where appropriate â psychological support. This comprehensive approach addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of pain and supports longer-term improvement.
Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. Your consultant will discuss whether this procedure is appropriate for you.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, we work as a team and meet regularly to discuss complex, treatment resistant or unusual cases. As such you will often receive the expertise of several pain consultants. We believe that we are one of very few pain clinics to offer this. Wessex Pain Clinic provides consultant-led assessment and treatment for acute and chronic pain conditions. Our multidisciplinary team includes Consultant Pain Specialists, Physiotherapists and Psychologists, offering evidence-based interventions alongside rehabilitation and self-management support. We welcome patients from across Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Surrey and Sussex, including Winchester, Basingstoke, Southampton, Portsmouth, and Chichester â with both in-clinic appointments and remote consultations available across the wider Wessex region.
Our friendly team is on hand to support you every step of the way. Please get in touch at any time.
