Effects of Ultrasound-guided Genicular Nerve Block in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients on Proprioception and Static Balance

Genicular nerve block (GNB) is a novel and promising interventional method for pain in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However ,it contains afferent fibers that receive impulses from proprioceptive and deep sensory receptors located in the joint capsule, ligaments, muscles, tendons and periosteum. These proprioceptive stimuli are effective on joint position and biomechanics, protect the joint from injuries and help maintain balance. This study aims to evaluate Pproprioception and static balance after ultrasound-guided GNB in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Inclusion criteria

• Chronic knee pain more than >3 according to visual analog scale (VAS) and difficulty in function more than 3 months
• Grade 2-3 KOA according to the Kellgren -Lawrence radiological grading system
• No significant improvement in response to conservative treatments such as analgesics and physiotherapy.

Exclusion criteria

• History of trauma, fractures, malignencies, surgery and inflammatory diseases of knee
• Limitation of range of motion in unilaterally and/or bilaterally in knee joint
• Allergies of pharmacological agents using during procedure (lidocaine)
• Presence of intra-articular or peri-articular injection such as hyaluronic acids, corticosteroids or collagen supplements at last 6 months
• Other neurologic or rheumatological conditions that may lead vertigo or vestibular disfunction or presence of impairment in proprioception such as polineuropathy
• Presence of diabetes mellitus due to risk of small fiber neuropathy
• Cognitive impairment and uncontrolled systemic conditions.