A genicular nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure that targets sensory nerves surrounding the knee joint. A small amount of local anesthetic is injected near selected genicular nerves to temporarily reduce the transmission of knee pain signals.

The procedure may be considered for people experiencing persistent knee pain related to osteoarthritis or continued discomfort after knee surgery. It can also serve as a diagnostic step to determine whether targeting these nerves with genicular nerve ablation may provide longer-lasting pain management.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, each patient is evaluated to identify the likely source of knee pain and determine whether a genicular nerve block is clinically appropriate. The treatment plan may also include imaging, rehabilitation, pain management, or other nonsurgical options based on the patient’s needs.

A nerve block uses an injected anesthetic, sometimes combined with another medication, to temporarily interrupt pain signals traveling through a specific nerve. It may be used to provide short-term relief or help determine whether a particular nerve is contributing to a patient’s pain.

Nerve ablation uses controlled thermal energy or another technique to disrupt the targeted nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals for a longer period. Because the nerve can gradually regenerate, relief is not necessarily permanent. Ablation is generally considered only after an evaluation and, in many cases, a successful diagnostic nerve block

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, patients receive a physician-led assessment to determine whether a nerve block, nerve ablation, or another treatment option may be appropriate. The recommendation depends on the source of pain, medical history, physical examination findings, and response to previous treatments.

A genicular nerve block is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. The patient lies on their back while the skin around the knee is cleaned and prepared. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the injection areas and help minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Using fluoroscopy, which is a form of live X-ray imaging, or ultrasound guidance, the physician carefully advances small needles toward specific genicular nerves surrounding the knee. A small amount of local anesthetic is then injected near the targeted nerves to temporarily interrupt pain signals.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, evaluates the patient’s knee pain, medical history, examination findings, and previous treatments before determining whether a genicular nerve block may be appropriate. The patient’s response to the injection may also help guide decisions about additional pain-management options, including genicular nerve ablation.

Pain relief from a genicular nerve block varies from person to person. Some patients may experience relief for only a few days, while others may notice improvement for several weeks or months. On average, relief may last about three months, although some patients receive little or no benefit from the injection.

The duration can depend on the medication used, the underlying cause of the knee pain, the severity of the condition, and the patient’s individual response. A genicular nerve block may also be used as a diagnostic procedure to determine whether the targeted nerves are contributing to pain and whether genicular nerve ablation should be considered.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, evaluates the patient’s response following the nerve block. She considers the amount of pain relief achieved, how long it lasts, and whether mobility or daily function improves before recommending the next appropriate step in the treatment plan.

Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab provides physician-led evaluation for individuals experiencing persistent knee pain that has not improved with conservative care. Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, reviews each patient’s symptoms, medical history, physical examination findings, imaging, and response to previous treatments before determining whether a genicular nerve block may be appropriate. This careful approach helps identify whether the targeted nerves may be contributing to the patient’s discomfort.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Abbasinejad incorporates genicular nerve block treatment into a personalized pain-management plan rather than using it as a stand-alone solution. She monitors the level and duration of pain relief, changes in knee function, and the patient’s ability to perform daily activities. These findings may help guide future treatment decisions, including rehabilitation, additional nonsurgical care, or genicular nerve ablation when clinically appropriate.

Contact us today to book an appointment to learn more about this minimally invasive procedure and how it can support your recovery and overall well-being. We are conveniently located at 1540 Purdue Dr, Ste. 200, Fayetteville, NC 28303. We serve patients from Fayetteville NC, Woodfield NC, Hope Mills NC, Fort Bragg NC, Eastover NC, and surrounding areas.