Lasting Knee Pain Relief, Without Surgery
If chronic knee pain from arthritis is wearing you down, there is a newer option before major surgery. A simple, minimally invasive treatment can calm the inflammation driving your pain, with no incisions and no knee replacement.
What this treatment is
It is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that eases chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, without surgery on the knee itself.
With knee arthritis, the lining of the joint becomes inflamed and grows extra tiny blood vessels that feed the pain. This treatment, known medically as genicular artery embolization (GAE), gently reduces the blood flow to that inflamed lining, which calms the inflammation and quiets the pain signals.
It is done through a tiny pinhole using a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, guided by live imaging. There is no cutting into the knee, no implant, and no general anesthesia, so it is often a good option for people who are not ready for, or want to avoid, a knee replacement.
How the treatment works
A simple, image-guided procedure, usually done in a couple of hours.
- 1
Numb the area
A small spot of local anesthetic numbs the skin. You stay awake and relaxed, with light sedation if needed.
- 2
Guide the catheter
A thin tube is guided to the small arteries feeding the inflamed knee lining.
- 3
Calm the inflammation
Microscopic particles gently reduce blood flow to the inflamed lining, easing the source of pain.
- 4
Pain settles
The tube is removed, leaving a small bandage. Many people feel gradual relief over the following weeks.
Why patients choose it
A gentler path to knee relief.
No surgery on the knee
No incisions, no implants, and your natural knee stays intact.
Awake, no general anesthesia
Local numbing and light sedation make it comfortable and low-stress.
Quick and outpatient
Usually done in a couple of hours, with no hospital stay.
Fast recovery
Most people are back on their feet quickly, with little downtime.
An option before surgery
A choice for people not ready for, or wanting to delay, a knee replacement.
Real, lasting relief
By calming the inflammation, it targets a true source of the pain.
A gentler alternative to knee surgery
How this minimally invasive treatment compares with knee replacement surgery.
| Minimally invasive treatment | Knee replacement surgery |
|---|---|
| Tiny pinhole, no incision on the knee | Open surgery with a replacement implant |
| Keeps your natural knee, no implant | General or spinal anesthesia |
| Local anesthesia, home the same day | A hospital stay is common |
| Little downtime | Weeks of rehabilitation |
A specialist will help you decide the best path. This treatment is often used for mild to moderate arthritis, or when surgery is not the right fit yet.
How Help My Legs works
Tell us your symptoms
Answer a few quick questions about your knee pain and how it affects you.
We match you locally
We connect you with a qualified specialist near your ZIP code.
You get seen
The office reaches out to schedule your visit. No obligation, no pressure.
Common questions
Does it hurt?
Most people feel little more than a small pinch from the numbing medicine. You stay comfortable throughout, with light sedation available to help you relax.
When will I feel relief?
Relief is usually gradual. Many people notice their knee pain easing over the weeks following the procedure as the inflammation settles.
Is this instead of a knee replacement?
It can be an option before or instead of surgery, especially for mild to moderate arthritis or when you are not ready for a replacement. A specialist will help you decide.
How do I know if I am a candidate?
A specialist will review your knee pain, imaging, and history. Many people with arthritis knee pain that has not responded to basic treatments are good candidates. The consultation is the place to find out.
Ready to get ahead of knee pain?
Schedule a consultation with a specialist near you and find out if this simple treatment is right for you.
Find a SpecialistLast updated July 2026