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Knee pain procedures
Persistent knee pain can be treated by blocking the genicular nerves that carry pain signals from the joint, or by injecting the joint itself. The genicular nerves carry pain signals from the knee joint. Blocking them tests whether they are responsible for your knee pain, and radiofrequency treatment of the same nerves can then provide relief lasting several months to around a year.
In brief
- For knee osteoarthritis and persistent pain after knee replacement.
- A diagnostic block is often performed first.
- Relief after radiofrequency typically lasts around 6–12 months.
- Does not affect the strength or stability of the knee.
- Useful for people unsuitable for, or waiting on, joint replacement.
Knee osteoarthritis is common and joint replacement is not always the answer — some people are not well enough for surgery, some are on long waiting lists, some do not want it, and a proportion continue to have pain after a technically successful replacement. Targeting the nerves that carry pain from the knee offers an option in all four situations.
How it works
Several small genicular nerves run in predictable positions around the knee, carrying sensory information from the joint. They do not supply muscle, so treating them does not weaken the leg or affect stability.
Diagnostic blocks
A block of the genicular nerves with local anaesthetic, under image guidance, tests whether these nerves are carrying your knee pain. A substantial drop in pain in the hours afterwards makes radiofrequency treatment more likely to help.
Radiofrequency treatment
Where the block is positive, radiofrequency lesions are made at the same targets. Relief commonly lasts somewhere in the range of six to twelve months, with meaningful variation between individuals, and the procedure can be repeated as the nerves regenerate. The evidence base for this in knee osteoarthritis has grown considerably and is reasonably supportive, though study quality varies and reported success rates differ.
What it does not do
It does not slow or reverse arthritis, and it does not change the joint. It reduces the pain signal from a joint that remains as it was. For some people that is enough to defer surgery, exercise more, and sleep better; for others it is a bridge to an operation.
On the day
Performed under X-ray or ultrasound guidance. The block takes 15–20 minutes; radiofrequency takes 30–45 minutes. Light sedation is available for the radiofrequency procedure.
Afterwards
Soreness for one to two weeks is normal. Patches of numbness around the knee are common and usually settle. Full benefit may take four to six weeks to appear.
Risks
Whilst pain procedures are generally safe and well tolerated, all procedures carry risks. The specific risks relevant to you and your procedure will be discussed with you, and written information provided, before you decide to proceed.
Practical information
- Where
- Most procedures are performed as a day case at St John of God Subiaco Hospital, Hollywood Private Hospital, Mount Private Hospital or St John of God Midland Hospital; some smaller procedures are performed in the rooms at Mount Lawley. The setting is confirmed with you at booking.
- Referral
- Required from a GP or specialist — by Healthlink (EDI painmdwa), fax 08 6114 0717 or email. Routine appointments are generally available within two to four weeks.
- Before the day
- Fasting, medication and transport requirements are set out on Before your procedure. If you take blood-thinning medication, or diabetes or weight-loss injections, tell the practice well before the day.
- Costs
- Dr Martin is a no-gap provider for in-hospital procedures with all major health funds, subject to your level of cover. A fee estimate is supplied on booking, prior to your consultation. See Fees and billing.
- Afterwards
- If your procedure is under sedation you cannot drive for 24 hours afterwards — please arrange transport home. Written post-procedure instructions are provided.
- Rural and remote
- Assessment and review can be done by telehealth; the procedure itself is scheduled in Perth.
How to arrange an appointment
A referral from a GP or specialist is required. Referrals are accepted by Healthlink (EDI: painmdwa), fax 08 6114 0717 or email admin@painmedicinewa.com.
Enquiries: 0448 299 260 — Monday 9:00am – 4:00pm, Tuesday to Thursday 8:00am – 4:00pm.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Whether a treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation with your doctor.
Reviewed by Dr Chris Martin, Consultant Pain and Rehabilitation Physician (FFPMANZCA, FAFRM RACP), Pain Medicine WA, Perth. Last reviewed August 2026.In a medical emergency, call 000.