Are We Thinking About Knee Pain Treatment All Wrong? For years, knee pain sufferers have been left with limited choices—live with the pain, rely on painkillers, or undergo invasive surgery. But what if the future of non-surgical knee pain treatment is already here? What if you could avoid surgery, reduce pain, and restore mobility with a simple outpatient procedure?

Enter Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)—an innovative, minimally invasive procedure that is changing the game for knee pain relief without surgery in Houston. If you’ve been searching for a solution that doesn’t involve months of recovery, hospital stays, or endless medications, keep reading.

What is GAE, and Why Haven’t You Heard About It?

GAE is a groundbreaking treatment that targets the root cause of knee pain—inflammation caused by excess blood flow to the knee joint. By blocking tiny blood vessels that contribute to inflammation, GAE can significantly reduce pain and swelling, allowing you to move freely again.

Here’s what makes GAE knee treatment in Houston a game-changer:
✅ No Surgery – No incisions, no general anesthesia, and no lengthy recovery.
✅ Outpatient Procedure – Walk in, get treated, and walk out the same day.
✅ Minimally Invasive – Performed through a tiny pinhole using imaging guidance.
✅ Fast Recovery – Return to your routine in days, not months.

Sounds almost too good to be true, right? But the science behind genicular artery embolization for knee pain is solid, with multiple studies showing significant pain reduction in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Medicare Coverage for Knee Arthritis Treatments

Medicare offers comprehensive coverage for various knee arthritis treatments deemed medically necessary. However, it excludes certain alternative therapies. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine eligibility and ensure that treatments are covered under your specific Medicare plan. Medicare provides coverage for various treatments related to knee arthritis, including doctor visits, screenings, physical therapy, medications, and durable medical equipment. However, it does not cover acupuncture for knee pain or stem cell therapy for arthritis. If you have multiple chronic conditions, such as arthritis and cardiovascular disease, you may qualify for chronic care management services under Medicare. For knee gel injections, Medicare Part B covers the cost of the injection itself, but additional fees may apply.

Medicare Coverage for Knee Arthritis Treatments

Covered Services:

• Doctor Visits & Screenings: Medicare Part B covers outpatient visits and necessary screenings related to arthritis.

• Physical Therapy: Medically necessary physical therapy is covered under Part B.

• Medications: Prescription drugs may be covered under Part D plans.

• Durable Medical Equipment (DME): Items like canes, walkers, and knee braces are covered under Part B when prescribed by a doctor.

Is GAE Right for You? Take This Quick Test!

Wondering if GAE knee treatment in Houston is the right option for you? Answer these questions:

1️⃣ Have you tried physical therapy, pain medications, or knee injections with little success?
2️⃣ Are you avoiding surgery because of the risks or recovery time?
3️⃣ Do you experience chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis or inflammation?
4️⃣ Are you looking for a minimally invasive, long-term solution?

If you answered yes to at least two of these questions, GAE could be your best alternative to knee surgery.

Medicare Coverage Status:

Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis by blocking blood flow to the inflamed areas of the knee joint, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.

• As of now, GAE is considered investigational or experimental by Medicare and most insurance providers.

• Since it’s not FDA-approved for routine arthritis treatment and lacks long-term outcome data in large populations, Medicare does not routinely reimburse GAE for knee osteoarthritis.

• Some clinical trials or special exceptions might offer limited coverage if the procedure is deemed medically necessary and part of an approved study.

Covered Alternatives by Medicare:

• Total or partial knee replacement surgery

• Viscosupplementation (gel injections)

• Corticosteroid injections

• Physical therapy

• Durable medical equipment (e.g., braces, walkers)

• Chronic care management for arthritis with other conditions

Why Houston Patients Are Choosing GAE Over Surgery

Traditional knee replacement surgery requires months of rehab, physical therapy, and potential complications.
GAE offers a faster, less invasive option, making it ideal for patients who want real relief without the downtime.
Insurance & Medicare Coverage – Many insurance providers, including Medicare, are now recognizing the benefits of GAE, making it an affordable option for knee pain relief without surgery.

At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, our team of board-certified interventional radiologists specializes in advanced, non-surgical knee pain treatments to help Houston patients move pain-free again.

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Knees – Schedule Your Free Consultation!

Why wait for knee pain to get worse when a proven, non-surgical solution is available today? Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to take action, our team is here to guide you.

ABOUT PREMIER VEIN & VASCULAR CENTER:  Premier Vein & Vascular Center, a leading vein clinic in Houston, has provided expert vein care for over 20 years. The center offers minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins, spider veins, and deep vein thrombosis, led by Dr. Syed Raza, MD, a Board-Certified Vein Specialist and Interventional Radiologist. Dedicated to pain-free, healthier living, the clinic delivers cutting-edge, patient-centered care for optimal results.

BLOG DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert for personalized guidance.