What is Radiofrequency Denervation?

Radiofrequency Denervation (also known as Radiofrequency Ablation) is a minimally
invasive procedure used to relieve chronic knee pain by interrupting the pain signals carried
by small sensory nerves around the knee joint. It involves applying heat generated by
radiofrequency energy to these nerves, effectively reducing the sensation of pain without
affecting movement or joint structure.

What conditions do we offer this for?

This procedure may be offered for patients with:

  • Well localised Chronic knee pain due to knee osteoarthritis unresponsive to other treatments
  • Persistent knee pain after knee replacement surgery, and pain is limited to the knee.
  • Pain affecting quality of life and mobility, especially when surgery is not suitable or preferred

Why is it done?

Radiofrequency Denervation of the knee is performed to:

  • Provide longer-term pain relief (often lasting 6–12 months or longer)
  • Reduce the need for pain medications, especially opioids or anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Improve mobility, walking ability, and quality of life
  • Support physical rehabilitation or delay the need for further surgical intervention


It is typically considered when patients do not have widespread pain and pain relief has been achieved with a diagnostic nerve block but is not sustained.

What does the procedure involve?

  • You will lie on your back with the knee exposed and supported.
  • The skin is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
  • Under ultrasound or X-ray guidance, fine needles are placed at the sites where the sensory nerves pass near the knee.
  • A small electrical current is used to confirm correct placement (you may feel a tingling or tapping).
  • Radiofrequency energy is then applied to heat and deactivate the nerves.
  • The procedure usually takes 30–45 minutes and is done as a day case.

Benefits

  • Targeted, long-lasting relief from chronic knee pain
  • Reduced need for daily pain medications
  • Better ability to walk, exercise, and sleep
  • May delay or reduce the need for further surgery
  • Does not affect muscle control or joint movement

Side Effects

Very Common side effects

(may affect more than 1in 10 patients):
  • Pain or bruising at the needle site
  • Temporary increase in knee pain
  • Mild numbness around the front or sides of the knee

Common side effects

(may affect up to 1in 10 patients):
  • Localised swelling or discomfort
  • Temporary change in sensation around the knee

 Uncommon side effects

(may affect up to 1 in 1,00 patients):
  • Skin burn or superficial infection
  • Temporary leg weakness or unsteadiness

 Rare side effects

(may affect up to 1 in 1,000 patients):
  • Nerve injury or prolonged numbness
  • Bleeding or haematoma
  • Allergic reaction to local anaesthetic

Aftercare Advice

  • You will be monitored after the injection and usually discharged the same day.
  • Avoid driving for 24 hours.

  • Some discomfort or swelling around the knee may last a few days — use ice packs and simple painkillers as advised.

  • Gradually resume activities; walking is encouraged, but avoid high-impact exercise initially.

  • Physiotherapy or a home exercise programme may be recommended for long-term benefit.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Please attend A&E immediately if you experience:
• Fever, chills, or signs of infection at the injection site
• Sudden chest pain, breathlessness, or dry cough
• New or worsening arm numbness or weakness
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe or ongoing neck pain not relieved by usual medication