Joint Nerve Block in Uijeongbu, Korea

A precise injection that blocks the small sensory nerves carrying pain from an arthritic or irritated joint, such as the knee, shoulder or spinal facet joints.

In short: A precise injection that blocks the small sensory nerves carrying pain from an arthritic or irritated joint, such as the knee, shoulder or spinal facet joints.

What is Joint Nerve Block?

Joints such as the knee, shoulder and the small facet joints of the spine send pain signals through tiny sensory nerves. A joint nerve block locates these nerves with ultrasound or C-Arm imaging and surrounds them with medication, reducing pain without an incision. It is particularly useful for older patients with degenerative joint pain who are not ready for, or not suited to, joint surgery.

At a glance

• Type: Image-guided injection
• Korean name: 관절 신경차단술
• Performed or prescribed by: Dr. Ji Seung-hun, neurosurgeon
• Where: Yonsei Leaders Neurosurgery Clinic, 1 minute from Balgok Station Exit 2, Uijeongbu

How it works, step by step

1. Examination and imaging to confirm the joint is the pain source.
2. Ultrasound or C-Arm used to locate the target nerves.
3. Fine-needle injection around each nerve.
4. Short rest and gradual return to walking.

Conditions it is used for

• Knee Osteoarthritis: Wear of the knee cartilage causing pain, stiffness and swelling, especially on stairs and after walking.
• Frozen Shoulder: Painful stiffening of the shoulder joint capsule, most common between 40 and 60, which limits reaching overhead and behind the back.
• Facet Joint Syndrome: Back or neck pain from arthritic or irritated small joints at the back of the spine, often worse on leaning back or twisting.
• Hip Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis: Groin, buttock or outer hip pain from wear of the hip joint or surrounding tissues, which limits walking and putting on shoes.

Benefits

• Quick, non-incisional procedure
• Rapid pain reduction that eases daily activities
• Suitable for people avoiding surgery
• Makes exercise rehabilitation easier to tolerate

Recovery and aftercare

You can usually walk out of the clinic. Avoid heavy exercise for a day, then follow the activity plan your doctor gives you.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of blocks depends on the joint and response; many patients combine them with physical therapy and strengthening.

Cost and insurance

Coverage depends on the exact procedure and your National Health Insurance (NHIS) status; the doctor explains costs before treatment. Many Korean private indemnity (실손) policies reimburse non-covered items. See the full price and insurance guide.

Book: call 031-874-7500. Yonsei Leaders Neurosurgery Clinic, 3F Yugyeong Bldg II, 181 Hoeryong-ro, Uijeongbu, Korea, 1 minute from Balgok Station Exit 2. Open Mon–Fri 09:00–20:00, Sat 09:00–14:00. See directions and international patient help.

Frequently asked questions