Understanding Genicular Nerve Blocks
Genicular nerve blocks are specialized injections designed to target the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the knee. These nerves—the superior medial, inferior medial, and superior lateral branches—help the knee sense movement and position. When they become irritated or damaged, persistent knee pain can result. A genicular nerve block uses anesthetic medication to interrupt these signals, providing relief and helping physicians better understand the source of knee pain.
How Genicular Nerve Blocks Work
A genicular nerve block prevents pain signals from traveling from the knee to the brain by numbing specific nerve branches around the joint. During the procedure, the physician applies a numbing cream to the skin and then injects anesthetic medication directly into the targeted nerves. This process is quick—generally taking only five to ten minutes in the office—and is designed to produce rapid relief.
Pain reduction often begins within 15 to 30 minutes, although the duration of relief can vary widely. Some patients may feel improvement for hours, while others may experience relief for days or weeks. In certain cases, pain relief may even last long-term. Because results are unpredictable, genicular nerve blocks are often the first step in evaluating whether the nerves are the true source of pain.
Diagnostic Uses and Patient Candidacy
Genicular nerve blocks are used both to manage knee pain and to diagnose its underlying cause. When used diagnostically, the procedure is performed with X-ray fluoroscopy to ensure precise needle placement. If pain decreases significantly after the injection, this confirms that the targeted nerve is responsible, allowing the physician to plan the next phase of treatment.
Candidates for a genicular nerve block often include individuals with chronic knee pain that has not improved with conservative treatments. The procedure is also helpful for patients with knee osteoarthritis or persistent pain after knee replacement surgery. Those unable to undergo knee replacement due to medical limitations may also benefit from this minimally invasive option.
Conditions Treated with Genicular Blocks
Knee osteoarthritis is the most common condition treated with genicular nerve blocks. As cartilage wears down over time, bone-on-bone contact can inflame surrounding tissues and compress nearby nerves. Blocking these nerves can ease pain and improve daily function. Patients experiencing unresolved pain after knee replacement surgery or those not eligible for surgery may also find this treatment useful.
Next Steps and Additional Treatment Options
For patients who experience significant relief from a diagnostic nerve block, radiofrequency neurolysis may be recommended. This procedure uses controlled heat to deactivate the specific nerve branch responsible for the pain, offering longer-lasting improvement. While genicular nerve blocks typically provide temporary relief, they play an important role in identifying pain sources and guiding effective treatment plans.
If chronic knee pain has not responded to conservative care—or if surgery is not desired or feasible—a genicular nerve block may be an effective next step. By accurately targeting irritated nerves, this treatment can help restore comfort and support improved mobility.