An Update on Radiofrequency Denervation for Arthritis-Related Knee Joint Pain: a Synthesis of the Current Evidence

Osteoarthritis of the knee joint, a condition prevalent in older individuals, is caused by gradual wear and tear and progressive erosion of the articular cartilage. As life expectancy and the prevalence of obesity continue to increase, the prevalence of knee osteoarthritis is expected to grow. Around 30% of >45-yr-olds exhibit radiographic signs of knee osteoarthritis, with approximately half of them reporting the triad of pain, stiffness and difficulty with walking.1,2 Although physiotherapy, medications and injections of steroids and viscosupplements can ameliorate pain for some patients with arthritis of the knee, many individuals continue to report moderate-to-severe pain.