New treatment option for knee pain now available in Geraldton

31 Oct 2025

Midwest residents now have access to a new minimally invasive procedure to help manage knee pain at St John of God Geraldton Hospital.

Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Aman Singh said demand for joint care is growing as more people experience injury or wear and tear with age and activity.

Nearly one in five Australians live with arthritis, most commonly osteoarthritis, which affects around a quarter of people over 65. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition where damage to the hips, knees and other joints can cause pain and reduce mobility.

“Many people are not yet ready for a joint replacement but also want to avoid relying on high doses of medication to manage pain,” Dr Singh said.

“Radiofrequency ablation provides another option that may help some people manage knee pain associated with arthritis.”

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses carefully controlled heat to target nerves around the knee that send pain signals to the brain. The procedure, performed under local anaesthetic, usually takes less than an hour and is typically done as a day procedure.

St John of God Geraldton Hospital Chief Executive Officer Phillip Balmer said the new service would provide greater local access to care.

“It is pleasing to be able to offer this treatment in Geraldton, so people can receive care closer to home,” Mr Balmer said.

“Better management of knee pain can support people to remain active, which in turn may help slow the progression of arthritis and delay the need for joint replacement surgery.”

RFA may be considered for people who:

• Have knee arthritis but are not ready for joint replacement
• Continue to experience pain after knee surgery
• Are seeking non-opioid, minimally invasive pain management options

Research has shown RFA can help reduce knee pain for some people, with effects that may last several months or longer. The procedure can be repeated if needed, and it does not involve large incisions or lengthy recovery times.

Dr Singh provides assessments for radiofrequency ablation at Midwest Orthopaedics, located within the St John of God Geraldton Hospital precinct.

A referral from a GP is usually required. People are encouraged to speak with their doctor to see if this treatment may be suitable for them.