Knee Pain Specialist in Nassau County, NY
Knee pain is one of the leading reasons people limit their activity, give up exercise, and consider surgery before exploring all non-surgical options. At his Garden City and Lake Success offices, Dr. Edward Rubin offers a full range of minimally invasive, non-surgical knee pain treatments — including cutting-edge PRP therapy and genicular nerve ablation — performed personally by Dr. Rubin, every time.
What Is Knee Pain?
Knee pain refers to any discomfort in or around the knee joint — including the front of the knee, behind the kneecap, along the inner or outer joint line, or in the back of the knee. It can be sharp, dull, burning, or achy, and may come on suddenly from an injury or gradually from wear-and-tear over time.
The knee is the largest joint in the body and one of the most complex. Pain can originate from the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, bursae, or the nerves that supply the joint.
Common Symptoms
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
- Pain that worsens with stairs, squatting, or getting up from a chair
- Swelling or stiffness after activity or in the morning
- A grinding, clicking, or popping sensation with movement
- Locking or giving-way of the knee
- Aching at rest or during the night
- Decreased range of motion
What Causes Knee Pain?
- Knee osteoarthritis — the most common cause; cartilage breaks down and bones begin to rub against each other
- Meniscus tears — tears in the cartilage pads that cushion the knee joint
- Patellar tendinopathy — degeneration or inflammation of the patellar tendon ("jumper's knee")
- IT band syndrome — inflammation of the iliotibial band along the outer knee
- Bursitis — inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee
- Ligament injuries — sprains or partial tears of the ACL, MCL, or LCL
- Chondromalacia patella — softening and breakdown of the cartilage behind the kneecap
- Referred pain — pain coming from the hip, lower back, or nerve roots in the lumbar spine
How Dr. Rubin Treats Knee Pain
Dr. Rubin's approach to knee pain emphasizes accurate diagnosis first, then matching the treatment to the cause. Every procedure is performed personally by Dr. Rubin:
PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
PRP uses a concentrated preparation of your own blood platelets — rich in growth factors — injected directly into the knee joint to stimulate tissue healing and reduce inflammation. PRP is particularly effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis and tendon injuries, and is one of the most exciting tools in regenerative joint care.
Genicular Nerve Blocks
The genicular nerves are the specific nerves that transmit pain signals from the knee joint to the brain. A genicular nerve block targets these nerves with precise injections under fluoroscopic guidance, interrupting the pain cycle. This procedure also serves as a diagnostic test before proceeding to genicular nerve ablation.
Genicular Nerve Ablation (Radiofrequency)
When genicular nerve blocks confirm that the knee pain is carried by the genicular nerves, radiofrequency ablation is used to disable those pain pathways. The result is significant, long-lasting knee pain relief — typically 12 months or more — without surgery and without altering the joint itself.
Corticosteroid Injections
For acute inflammation and pain flares — particularly in knee osteoarthritis or bursitis — corticosteroid injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint for fast, effective relief.
Viscosupplementation (Hyaluronic Acid)
Hyaluronic acid injections (gel injections) supplement the natural joint fluid in arthritic knees, reducing friction and pain. Particularly useful for patients who want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.
Knee Joint Aspiration
When significant fluid accumulation (effusion) contributes to knee pain and stiffness, aspiration removes excess fluid to relieve pressure and improve mobility.
FAQs About Knee Pain
Is PRP covered by insurance? PRP therapy is currently considered investigational by most insurers and is typically not covered. However, it is offered at a transparent fee and many patients find the long-term benefit well worth the investment.
Am I a candidate for genicular nerve ablation? Ideal candidates have knee pain from osteoarthritis or failed knee replacement, have tried conservative treatments, and have responded positively to a diagnostic genicular nerve block. Dr. Rubin will evaluate your candidacy at your consultation.
How long does a corticosteroid injection last? Most patients experience relief for 2–4 months. Injections can be repeated but are typically limited to 3–4 per year per joint to protect the cartilage.
Can knee pain be caused by my back or hip? Yes. Pain referred from the lumbar spine or hip is a frequent and underrecognized cause of knee symptoms. Dr. Rubin evaluates the full kinetic chain to rule out referred pain before treating the knee directly.
What if I've already been told I need a knee replacement? Genicular nerve ablation and PRP therapy are both viable options for patients trying to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery. Many patients achieve meaningful relief and regain function without an operation.
Treating Knee Pain on Long Island
Dr. Rubin sees patients at two convenient Nassau County locations — Garden City and Lake Success — with procedures performed at affiliated surgical centers including NYU Long Island and Northwell Health. Call 516-492-3100 to schedule your evaluation.