Do you suffer from chronic knee pain? Have you had an accident like a sports injury or slip and fall that left you injured in your knee? 

Radiofrequency, a solution with proven effectiveness in reducing pain and improving mobility in the knee joint, could be the answer to your chronic knee pain. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of this minimally invasive treatment.

Treating Knee Pain with Radiofrequency

Pain management specialists and patients both are concerned about how to treat knee pain. In these cases, radiofrequency treatment can be a great ally, especially during unstable weather that affects joint pain. The knee is a source of pain among the majority of the population, not only due to the high incidence of osteoarthritis but also due to falls and trauma.

Sports injuries and osteoarthritis are the leading causes of knee pain

Sports injuries, especially osteoarthritis, are the cause of pain in one of the most frequently affected joints in the general population. Fortunately, this treatment is effective and painless and serves to relieve pain in this joint.

What is Radiofrequency and How Does It Work?

Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive procedure, a testament to the expertise of pain management specialists. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat and injure the nerves that transmit pain signals selectively. In the case of knee pain, it is applied to the nerves that innervate the joint, interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

The use of radiofrequency of the geniculate nerves for the treatment of chronic knee pain secondary to osteoarthritis (Source – began in 201)Since then, several studies have been carried out using different methodologies. It has been proven that radiofrequency reduces pain in the knee, achieving functional improvement with a variable duration of the analgesic effect between three and twelve months. Despite scientific progress in this area, there still needs to be consensus regarding the neuroanatomy of the joint capsule of the knee, the location of the targets, the parameters used in radiofrequency and the usefulness of diagnostic blocks.

During the treatment, an ultrasound-guided needle is inserted near the nerves in the knee. Once correctly positioned, the needle emits a radiofrequency current that heats the nerve tissue, temporarily removing the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals. This procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, allowing the patient to be conscious and comfortable.

Why Avoid Knee Surgery if Possible?

While knee surgery can be an effective solution in some cases of severe knee pain, it also carries certain risks and drawbacks: Recovery time is often long, and the intervention can cause discomfort and even complications. In addition, it does not always guarantee the complete elimination of pain or the full restoration of joint function.

Alternatives to Knee Surgery

A good Pain management specialist uses a comprehensive approach to the treatment of knee pain. Prioritizing noninvasive and conservative options, such as radiofrequency, whenever possible, with the aim of:

• Avoiding the risks and prolonged recovery from surgery.
• Preserving the natural structure of the knee.
• Finding long-term solutions without the need for repetitive surgical interventions.

Benefits of Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency provides a comforting sense of security because it provides long-lasting pain relief, which can last several months or even years.

Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike surgery, radiofrequency is an outpatient procedure that requires slight recovery.

Few side effects: Side effects are generally mild and temporary, such as discomfort at the puncture site.

High efficacy: Pain management specialists use this method because radiofrequency is effective for treating chronic knee pain.

When is Radiofrequency Recommended?

Radiofrequency can be an excellent option for patients suffering from:

• Knee osteoarthritis: One of the most common causes of chronic knee pain.
• Neuropathic pain: Pain caused by injury or disease in the nerves.
• Patients using knee prostheses who persist in pain
• Failure of other treatments: If other conservative treatments have not been effective.

It is especially useful for those who want to avoid surgery or who have found other treatments ineffective. However, not all patients are ideal candidates, so it is important to have a thorough evaluation with pain management specialists to determine the best treatment option.

When Can Knee Surgery Be Avoided with Therapies at the Pain Clinic?

Pain clinic therapies can be an effective alternative to knee surgery in a wide variety of cases, including:

Knee osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the joint cartilage is one of the most common causes of knee pain. Radiotherapy can help relieve pain, improve mobility and delay the need for a knee replacement.

Ligament and meniscus injuries: Injuries to the ligaments and meniscus of the knee can cause pain and joint instability.

Tendinitis and bursitis: Inflammation of the tendons and bursae around the knee can cause pain and swelling. Pain management specialists use radiofrequency therapy to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Chronic knee pain of unknown origin: In some cases, knee pain may be persistent without a clear cause identified. Radiofrequency therapies can help control pain and improve quality of life.

Recovery and Results

Recovery after radiofrequency treatment is generally swift, with most patients able to resume their normal activities the day after the procedure. Some pain or swelling at the injection site is common, but these symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. While results may vary, many patients experience significant pain relief in the weeks following the procedure.

Radiofrequency As A Treatment Option

Radiofrequency treatment for knee pain is an innovative technique that offers a practical and less invasive alternative to surgery.

Injury Assistance Network can provide more information about pain management clinics near you where you can have this treatment. Contact us, and we will connect you with the healthcare professional you need.