A recent study by MedStar Georgetown University Hospital has brought hope to people suffering from chronic knee pain, especially those aged 50 and older.
The researchers discovered that a simple, non-surgical procedure called genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility in older adults with knee osteoarthritis.
The study included 36 patients and explored whether certain factors—like age, gender, body weight, previous surgeries, or having conditions like fibromyalgia—affected how well the treatment worked.
All participants experienced pain relief after the procedure, but the most notable results came from people over 50. This group reported the biggest drop in pain and the greatest improvement in how well they could move and use their knees.
The treatment works by targeting the nerves around the knee that send pain signals to the brain. Using imaging tools to guide them, interventional radiologists place tiny probe needles next to these nerves. The probes then send out radio waves that heat the nerves, dulling or destroying them so they can no longer send pain signals.
One major benefit of this treatment is that the targeted nerves are only responsible for pain—not movement or balance. That means the procedure doesn’t weaken muscles or affect a person’s ability to walk. Patients are left with just small Band-Aids instead of stitches and can usually return to normal activities soon after.
Earlier research has shown that the pain relief from this procedure can last anywhere from six months to two years. For many people, this means being able to walk, exercise, or enjoy hobbies again without constant discomfort.
The team at MedStar Georgetown, led by Kaitlin Carrato, is continuing to study the long-term effects of this treatment. They are also exploring whether this method could be used for pain in other joints like the shoulders, hips, and the joints connecting the spine to the pelvis.
This discovery comes at a time when many people are seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term pain medications. Chronic knee pain can limit independence, especially in older adults, and surgery isn’t always an option due to health risks, recovery time, or personal preference.
In the broader world of pain management and wellness, related studies show that one in three people with chronic pain now turn to marijuana for relief. Others are looking at options like krill oil for muscle health, vitamins to lower the risk of bone fractures, and strength exercises like powerlifting to help with back pain.
The findings from MedStar Georgetown were shared at the Society of Interventional Radiology Annual Scientific Meeting and offer new hope for those who want to manage knee pain without surgery. As research continues, treatments like genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation could become a key option for improving the lives of people living with chronic joint pain.
If you care about arthritis, please read studies about extra virgin olive oil for arthritis, and pomegranate: A natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
For more information about arthritis, please see recent studies about how to live pain-free with arthritis, and results showing medical cannabis may help reduce arthritis pain, back pain.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
