The effects of ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block on proprioception and static balance in knee osteoarthritis patients

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate proprioception and static balance after ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block (GNB) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Patients and methods: The observational study included 22 patients (8 males, 14 females; mean age: 61.9±7.7 years; range, 50 to 70 years) with Kellgren-Lawrence Grade 2 or 3 KOA between January 2024 and June 2024. At baseline and 24 h after the application of GNB, pain was evaluated using a Visual Analog Scale, and HUR SmartBalance assessments were performed. Results: Visual Analog Scale pain scores significantly decreased after treatment (p<0.001). With the exception of the static balance score, the HUR SmartBalance parameters showed a significant difference after treatment compared to baseline (p=0.626). Proprioception disturbance, visual dependency, and vestibular balance scores significantly increased (p<0.001) in comparison to pretreatment values. Conclusion: Contrary to common belief, GNB appears to have a positive effect on proprioception and balance in patients with KOA.