Non-surgical nerve treatment shows great promise in reducing arthritis knee pain
Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation, a minimally invasive treatment for arthritis knee pain, can significantly reduce pain, says new research.
What is genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation?
Probe needles are placed next to the knee nerves that send pain signals to the brain. The probes generate radio waves, creating a ball of heat to dull or destroy the pain nerve endings. These nerves do not control muscles or affect balance, so the procedure is safe, and only local anaesthetic is needed. The treatment lasts for six months to up to two years.
What does the new research show?
A total of 36 people were involved in the study which looked at pain scores along with age, gender, body mass index, prior surgery and history of fibromyalgia. All of the participants enjoyed a reduction in pain following the procedure, especially those who were older.
“We know this treatment has clear benefits in reducing pain and improving the ability to do everyday activities for patients,” says Dr Kaitlin Carrato who worked on the study. “But now that we know it’s particularly helpful for those over 50 years old, it may mean that those with chronic pain conditions, like arthritis, would benefit more from this treatment than patients suffering acute pain, such as an injury.”
The potential is great as the same treatment can be used for shoulder, hips and the joints that connect the spine to the pelvis.
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