Chronic knee pain affects an increasing number of patients across North Carolina, from active adults to individuals who are trying to stay mobile without undergoing surgery in Dunn, Oxford, Henderson and the Triangle area.
For many, physical therapy, medications, and steroid or gel injections provide only temporary relief. When pain persists, patients are often told that knee replacement surgery is the next step. Fortunately, with the introduction of GAE, surgery is no longer the only option.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Some of the most common causes include:
Osteoarthritis
The most frequent cause of chronic knee pain, resulting from wear and tear of the knee joint over time.
Inflammation of the knee joint
Excess blood flow and inflammation around the knee can lead to persistent pain and swelling.
Cartilage Degeneration
Gradual breakdown of cartilage reduces cushioning between bones, causing stiffness and discomfort.
Previous Knee Injuries
Old sports injuries, ligament damage, or fractures can contribute to long-term knee pain.
Overuse and Repetitive Strain
Prolonged standing, walking, or high-impact activities can stress the knee joint.
Age-Related Changes
As we age, joints naturally lose flexibility and strength, increasing the risk of pain.
Understanding the underlying cause of knee pain is essential in choosing the right treatment approach.
Why Knee Pain Becomes Chronic
Knee pain becomes chronic when the underlying problem is not adequately treated or when inflammation continues over time. Common reasons include:
- Persistent inflammation that keeps irritating the knee joint
- Progressive osteoarthritis, where joint damage worsens gradually
- Abnormal blood vessel growth around the knee that fuels inflammation and pain
- Delayed or inadequate treatment of injuries or joint conditions
- Reduced mobility, which weakens surrounding muscles and increases joint stress
When knee pain lasts for months or years, it can significantly affect mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. Identifying and treating the root cause early can help prevent long-term discomfort.
Understanding the underlying cause of knee pain is essential in choosing the right treatment approach.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that targets the underlying inflammation responsible for chronic knee pain, without surgery. It is an outpatient procedure with little to no downtime after the procedure.
GAE is a catheter-based procedure performed by an interventional specialist. Using advanced imaging, small abnormal blood vessels that supply inflamed tissue around the knee are identified and selectively treated.
By reducing excess blood flow to inflamed areas, GAE helps to:
- Decrease chronic inflammation
- Reduce pain
- Improve knee function
So, the joint itself is preserved and making GAE an attractive option for patients who want to delay or avoid knee replacement.
Who is a candidate for GAE?
GAE may be appropriate if you:
- Have knee pain lasting longer than 1 month
- Have tried physical therapy or steroid and gel injections without much improvement that is lasting.
- Want a non-surgical solution
- Are not an ideal candidate for surgery
Champion Health System commonly evaluates active adults, athletes, and patients with early-to-moderate arthritis.
What to Expect From Us
At Champion Health System, Genicular Artery Embolization is performed as a comfortable outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. The treatment does not require general anesthesia and is carried out using advanced ultrasound-guided or catheter-based techniques for precision and safety. With minimal downtime, most patients experience a rapid return to their daily activities, making GAE a convenient and effective option for chronic knee pain relief.
Why Choose Champion Health System in North Carolina
Champion Health System offers:
- Physician-led, image-guided care
- Expertise in musculoskeletal embolization
- Advanced technology
- Personalized treatment plans
We collaborate closely with orthopedic and sports medicine providers across the Triangle and surrounding North Carolina communities.
Schedule a Consultation
If chronic knee pain is limiting your daily life, schedule a consultation with us to learn whether Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be right for you. Our experienced team will review your condition, answer your questions, and help you explore a minimally invasive option designed to relieve pain while preserving the anatomy of your knee joint.
Schedule a consultation with Champion Health System today.
Knee Pain & GAE Consultation (919) 339-4077
