Genicular Nerve Block

A genicular nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat chronic knee pain, especially when pain continues after knee surgery or arthritis treatments. The genicular nerves are small nerves around the knee that send pain signals to the brain. By injecting a local anesthetic near these nerves, the procedure can temporarily block the pain.

If successful, the block may lead to a longer-term procedure called genicular nerve ablation.

Your provider may recommend a genicular nerve block if you have:

• Chronic knee pain from arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or post-surgical knee pain (even after knee replacement)
• Pain that limits walking, bending, or standing
• Pain that persists despite medications, physical therapy, or injections
• Desire to avoid additional knee surgery

This block confirms whether the genicular nerves are the main source of your knee pain.

The procedure is done in an outpatient setting.

• You will lie comfortably on your back.
• The skin around your knee will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
• Using fluoroscopic (live X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted to carefully place anesthetic near the genicular nerves.
• No steroids are used at this stage — only a local anesthetic.
• Procedure time: About 20–30 minutes
• Sedation: Usually not necessary.

• Immediate pain relief can occur if the targeted nerves are the true source of your pain.
• Pain relief may last only a few hours to a couple of days because this is a diagnostic block.
• If you experience significant relief, you may be a candidate for a genicular nerve ablation (longer-lasting treatment).
• Mild soreness or bruising at the injection sites is normal and temporary.

Tracking your pain after the genicular nerve block is very important. Please fill out a pain diary over the next 6 hours following your procedure.

Record the following:

• Before the injection: Your pain level (0–10 scale) and description of your usual activities.
• After the injection:
  • Pain level at 1st-6th hours following your procedure
  • Any changes in your ability to walk, stand, climb stairs, or perform daily activities
  • Any noticeable improvements in quality of life (sleep, mood, movement)

Genicular nerve blocks are very safe. Rare potential side effects include:

• Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site
• Mild swelling or redness (usually resolves quickly)
• Infection (very rare)
• Allergic reaction to local anesthetic (extremely rare)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use sterile techniques and advanced imaging to ensure your safety.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management specialists
• Expertise in nerve-targeted therapies for knee pain
• Minimally invasive options with fast recovery
• Personalized care plans based on your results and needs

Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and live pain-free.