Hip Ablation for Persistent Hip Pain

What is hip nerve ablation?

 

Hip nerve ablation aims to reduce pain by treating the sensory nerves that supply the hip joint. These nerves transmit pain signals but do not control movement of the hip.

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The procedure is performed using image guidance to accurately target the nerves while avoiding nearby structures.

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The two main techniques are:

• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

• Chemical ablation (chemical neurolysis)

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Both aim to reduce pain while allowing you to remain active and participate more comfortably in rehabilitation and everyday life.

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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

 

Radiofrequency ablation uses a specialised needle to deliver controlled heat to the targeted nerves.

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The heat creates a small lesion that interrupts pain signals travelling from the hip joint.

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The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic using X-ray or ultrasound guidance, depending on the nerves being treated.

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Potential benefits

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• Minimally invasive

• No surgical incision

• Usually performed as a day-case procedure

• May reduce pain for several months

• Can improve mobility and quality of life

• May reduce reliance on pain medication

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Chemical Ablation (Chemical Neurolysis)

 

Chemical ablation uses a carefully controlled injection of medication to interrupt pain transmission from the targeted nerves.

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This technique is most commonly considered when radiofrequency treatment is not suitable or where individual clinical circumstances make chemical neurolysis the preferred option.

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The procedure is also performed under image guidance to ensure accurate placement.

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Which conditions may benefit?

 

Hip nerve ablation may be considered for selected patients with:

• Hip osteoarthritis

• Persistent hip pain despite conservative treatment

• Pain after hip replacement (in selected cases)

• Patients who are not suitable for surgery

• Patients wishing to delay joint replacement where appropriate

• Persistent pain despite previous injections

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Treatment is only recommended following a detailed assessment to ensure that the symptoms are likely to arise from the hip joint itself.

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Am I suitable?

 

You may be suitable if you:

• Have persistent hip pain lasting several months

• Have not achieved sufficient improvement with physiotherapy or medication

• Have experienced only temporary benefit from injections

• Wish to explore alternatives before surgery

• Are not medically suitable for surgery

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Suitability varies between individuals, and not everyone with hip pain will benefit from nerve ablation.

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What happens during the procedure?

 

Most procedures take between 30 and 60 minutes.

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The procedure usually involves:

1. Positioning on the X-ray table.

2. Cleaning the skin and applying local anaesthetic.

3. Using image guidance to accurately position the treatment needles.

4. Confirming correct placement.

5. Performing radiofrequency or chemical ablation.

6. Applying a small dressing before discharge home.

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Most patients return home the same day.

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Recovery

 

It is common to experience mild discomfort around the treatment area for several days.

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Most patients can:

• Walk immediately after the procedure

• Return to light daily activities within one or two days

• Gradually increase activity over the following weeks

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Pain relief is not always immediate. Improvement often develops over several weeks.

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What are the benefits?

 

For carefully selected patients, hip nerve ablation may:

• Reduce pain

• Improve walking and mobility

• Improve sleep

• Increase participation in physiotherapy

• Improve quality of life

• Reduce the need for pain medication

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The degree and duration of pain relief varies between individuals.

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What are the risks?

 

Hip nerve ablation is generally considered a low-risk procedure, although complications can occur.

 

Possible risks include:

• Temporary soreness

• Bruising

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Temporary numbness

• Failure to improve symptoms

• Temporary increase in pain after treatment

• Very rarely, injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels

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These risks will be discussed during your consultation before any procedure is undertaken.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is hip nerve ablation the same as a hip replacement?

 

No.

Hip nerve ablation treats pain signals from the joint but does not replace or repair the joint itself.

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How long does pain relief last?

 

Relief varies between individuals.

Many patients experience improvement for several months, although the duration cannot be guaranteed.

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Will I be asleep?

 

No.

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic, although sedation may occasionally be considered.

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Can the procedure be repeated?

 

In some cases, yes.

Whether repeat treatment is appropriate depends on the response to the initial procedure and your individual circumstances.

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Will I still need physiotherapy?

 

Often, yes.

Reducing pain can make rehabilitation easier and improve longer-term outcomes.​

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Ready to explore your treatment options?

 

If persistent knee pain is limiting your mobility, exercise or enjoyment of everyday life, a consultation can help determine whether genicular nerve ablation or another treatment is the most appropriate option for you.