Cryoablation, also known as cryoneurolysis or nerve freezing, is a procedure where extreme cold is used to disrupt nerve function temporarily. This technique is used to treat chronic pain in areas like the knees, shoulders, and lower back. The goal is to reduce pain by targeting the nerves responsible for sending pain signals.

During the procedure, a needle-like probe is placed near the nerve using imaging guidance like ultrasound or CT scans. The probe then releases very cold temperatures to freeze the nerve without permanently damaging it. This can provide significant pain relief for several months as the nerve slowly regenerates.

Cryoablation is particularly useful for conditions such as osteoarthritis, post-surgical pain, and certain nerve entrapment syndromes. Patients often find it helpful if other treatments like medications or physical therapy haven't worked well. Compared to options like radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat, cryoablation causes less risk of forming painful nerve growths (neuromas) and doesn't permanently damage motor function.

Before the procedure, patients will likely need to stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, and they may need someone to drive them home afterward. Most patients experience temporary numbness or soreness at the treatment site, and there's a small risk of infection or skin irritation. Pain relief usually sets in within a few days and can last from a few months up to a year, with the possibility of needing repeat procedures.

For those seeking alternatives, pain relief medication, physical therapy, or surgical intervention may be considered. However, cryoablation offers a minimally invasive approach with fewer risks and a quicker recovery time compared to surgery, providing a beneficial option for managing chronic pain.