From Chronic Pain to Relief: Why GAE Is the Go-To Alternative to Knee Replacement

Introduction: Living with Knee Pain Doesn’t Have to Be Your “New Normal”

For millions of Americans, chronic knee pain has become an unwelcome companion—often stealing independence, limiting daily activities, and impacting emotional well-being. Whether it’s struggling up the stairs, avoiding family walks, or living with the nagging ache that never quite goes away, the toll is more than physical. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause, affecting over 32.5 million adults in the U.S., and its symptoms often worsen with time[^12^].

Traditionally, total knee replacement surgery has been considered the last resort when medications, injections, or physical therapy fail. But for many patients, the idea of major surgery—complete with long recovery times, significant risks, and high costs—is just not an ideal solution. Whether due to health concerns, age, lifestyle, or simply personal preference, many people want relief without going under the knife.

That’s where Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) comes in—a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that offers lasting pain relief without removing or replacing any part of your knee. Offered by the Vascular Institute of Michigan, GAE is emerging as a groundbreaking alternative to knee replacement, especially for patients who aren’t quite ready—or willing—for surgery.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about GAE, from how it works to whether it’s right for you. You’ll learn why more patients (and doctors) are turning to this innovative treatment, how it compares to knee replacement, and what real-life results patients have seen.

Discover our GAE services in Michigan and why this procedure is changing lives for people suffering from chronic knee pain.

Why GAE Is Gaining Attention Nationwide

The medical community is quickly recognizing GAE as a powerful solution for knee osteoarthritis. According to UChicago Medicine, GAE has shown promise in reducing knee inflammation and providing pain relief without affecting joint mechanics or future surgical options. That means you can try GAE today without limiting your future—a fact that gives patients peace of mind.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, our board-certified vascular specialists, led by Dr. Mohammed Margni, MD, FACS, perform GAE with the precision and expertise that comes from years of treating complex vascular conditions. Our mission is to provide solutions that restore mobility and dignity—without the burden of unnecessary surgery.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) and How Does It Work?

When most people hear “embolization,” they imagine something complicated, invasive, or scary. But Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is anything but. It’s a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment designed to reduce inflammation in the knee by cutting off abnormal blood flow that fuels pain and swelling. For patients dealing with osteoarthritis-related knee pain, GAE offers real, science-backed relief—without the scalpel, implants, or prolonged downtime.

🩺 Definition and Procedure Overview

Genicular Artery Embolization is a procedure that involves the precise delivery of tiny microspheres (essentially medical-grade particles) into the small arteries around the knee, called genicular arteries. These arteries often develop abnormal branches that increase blood flow to the inflamed lining of the knee joint (the synovium), making the pain and swelling worse.

Here’s what happens during the procedure:

1. A small catheter is inserted through a pinhole in the groin or upper leg.

2. Using real-time imaging (usually fluoroscopy), the physician navigates the catheter to the inflamed arteries.

3. Microspheres are released, selectively blocking the problematic vessels.

4. This reduces inflammation, improves blood flow to healthy tissue, and eases pain.

The entire process takes about 60 to 90 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis—meaning you’ll go home the same day.

For a deeper dive into how we perform this at our clinic, visit our GAE Treatment Overview.

🎯 How GAE Targets Knee Pain

The real innovation of GAE lies in its targeted approach. Instead of masking symptoms like medications or waiting for cartilage to wear down completely before considering surgery, GAE actively shuts down the source of inflammation. This is inflammation that fuels pain even in moderate stages of osteoarthritis.

Studies have shown that by reducing blood flow to the inflamed areas, GAE interrupts the cycle of swelling and pain[^15^]. Over time, this helps restore mobility, reduce reliance on painkillers, and improve the ability to perform daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping comfortably.

Want to learn more about the vascular system’s role in knee health? Check out our page on Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)—a condition we often treat alongside knee pain.

🔬 The Science Behind GAE: Blocking Inflammation Pathways

According to UCSF Radiology, the pain in knee osteoarthritis doesn’t just stem from cartilage loss—it’s largely driven by inflammation in the surrounding soft tissues, especially the synovium. That’s why GAE is so effective: it addresses the underlying inflammatory blood supply rather than the joint structure itself.

Key clinical research shows:

• Over 70% of patients report meaningful pain relief within weeks[^15^].

• GAE has been shown to reduce dependence on medications like NSAIDs and opioids[^13^].

• The treatment does not damage healthy tissue or impair future surgeries—a major advantage over some more aggressive interventions[^5^].

This makes GAE a safe, evidence-based alternative that integrates well into long-term arthritis care.

🏥 Why GAE at Vascular Institute of Michigan?

Unlike general orthopedic centers, our clinic is built around vascular expertise. That matters—because embolization is a vascular procedure. At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, your GAE will be performed by a board-certified vascular surgeon with extensive training in catheter-based treatments, image guidance, and microvascular care.

🧠 “We don’t just treat knee pain—we treat the vascular system that fuels inflammation. That’s the difference.” – Dr. Mohammed Margni, MD, FACS

We perform GAE in our modern outpatient facility, designed for precision procedures with maximum patient comfort and safety.

🧩 GAE: A Minimally Invasive Piece in a Bigger Picture

If you’ve tried cortisone injections, physical therapy, or over-the-counter pain relief and still feel limited by knee pain, GAE may be the next logical step. And the best part? It doesn’t “burn any bridges.” You can still pursue a full knee replacement later, if ever needed.

For many, GAE is the relief they’ve been waiting for—a chance to delay or even avoid surgery while reclaiming their mobility.

Learn more about your candidacy in our FAQ section or schedule a consultation today.

Who Is a Good Candidate for GAE?

Not every knee pain sufferer needs surgery. And not everyone with osteoarthritis is ready—or able—to go through a full knee replacement. That’s exactly where Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) shines. It’s an ideal solution for patients who find themselves “in between”: not quite surgical candidates, but tired of failed conservative treatments.

If that sounds like you, read on.

✅ Ideal Candidates for Genicular Artery Embolization

The best candidates for GAE tend to fall into one (or more) of the following categories:

• Adults aged 45–75 with moderate to severe osteoarthritis, especially those who:

  • Have chronic knee pain that persists despite medications, cortisone, gel injections, or physical therapy

  • Are not yet ready for or not eligible for total knee replacement due to age, health conditions, or personal preference

  • Want to delay knee surgery to preserve mobility and avoid a long recovery

  • Continue to have pain even after a partial or total knee replacement

In particular, patients in Michigan communities like Flint, Lapeer, and Owosso often seek localized, outpatient care that doesn’t involve hospital admission or months of rehab.

🚫 Who Might Not Qualify for GAE?

While GAE is safe and effective, it’s not right for everyone. You may not qualify for the procedure if:

• You have active infections in or around the knee joint

• You’ve had recent vascular interventions that limit catheter access

• You suffer from severe peripheral arterial disease that limits blood flow to your legs

• You have bleeding disorders or are on certain blood thinners that can’t be adjusted

• Your knee pain is due to mechanical instability or non-inflammatory causes (e.g., ligament tears)

That’s why at the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we perform a thorough pre-procedure screening, including imaging tests and vascular evaluation. This ensures GAE is not only effective—but safe for you.

Learn more about conditions that may impact vascular procedures on our vascular conditions page.

🧪 How Candidacy Is Determined: The Evaluation Process

At our clinic, we never rush into procedures. Instead, we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to evaluating every GAE candidate.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Medical Consultation – You’ll meet with a board-certified vascular specialist to review your pain history, treatments tried, and any surgical recommendations you’ve received.

2. Knee Imaging Review – We’ll assess recent X-rays or MRIs to confirm osteoarthritis severity and rule out major joint instability or other mechanical issues.

3. Vascular Screening – Using Doppler ultrasound or angiography, we’ll examine the blood supply to your knee, ensuring your arteries are suitable for embolization.

4. Shared Decision-Making – If you’re a candidate, we’ll walk through the risks, benefits, insurance coverage, and your goals—empowering you to make the best decision for your health.

This collaborative process is one reason patients choose the Vascular Institute of Michigan. You’re not just a chart—you’re an individual with unique concerns, mobility goals, and hopes for your future.

👥 Real-Life Example: Who GAE Helps Most

Meet Linda, a 63-year-old retired teacher from Lapeer. She’s had chronic knee pain for 8 years, received two cortisone shots and one gel injection—but the pain always returned. Her orthopedist said she was “too young” for a knee replacement and told her to wait.

But Linda didn’t want to wait in pain.

She came to the Vascular Institute of Michigan, underwent GAE, and within two weeks reported a 60% reduction in pain. Today, she walks daily, plays with her grandkids, and hasn’t taken a painkiller in months.

If you relate to Linda’s story, schedule your free consultation to find out if GAE is right for you.

🔎 Still Unsure? Ask These Questions:

To help clarify if GAE is the right fit, ask yourself:

• Have I tried everything but still deal with daily knee pain?

• Am I being told to “wait” for a knee replacement?

• Do I want a solution that doesn’t involve cutting into my knee?

• Would I prefer a short recovery and same-day return home?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, it’s time to explore your options beyond surgery.

Visit our FAQ page or reach out to our care team for more answers.

GAE vs. Knee Replacement Surgery: A Clear Comparison

When it comes to treating chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis, most patients are familiar with knee replacement as the “inevitable last resort.” But is it really the only—or even the best—option for everyone?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) challenges that notion head-on.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we’ve helped many patients avoid or delay major surgery with this innovative treatment. Let’s break down how GAE compares to total knee replacement (TKR) across all the factors that matter to patients—so you can make an informed decision for your health, comfort, and quality of life.

🛠️ Procedure Differences: Minimally Invasive vs. Surgical

In short, GAE is a vascular micro-procedure, while TKR is a full orthopedic surgery involving bone and tissue removal. With GAE, there are no incisions, no stitches, and no metal implants.

Learn more about the minimally invasive care approach at our outpatient lab.

🕒 Recovery Time and Return to Activities

One of the most important factors for patients is how fast they can get back to normal life.

GAE Recovery:

• Most patients are walking the same day

• Minor soreness or swelling at the puncture site for 1–3 days

• Return to normal activities in under 2 weeks

• No physical therapy required

TKR Recovery:

• Requires 6–12 weeks of rehab, sometimes longer

• May involve significant post-op pain

• Driving, climbing stairs, or returning to work can take months

• Risk of complications from hospital stay or anesthesia

💡 According to USA Pain Center, many GAE patients report noticeable pain relief in just 1–2 weeks, versus months for full recovery from knee replacement.

⚖️ Risks and Complications: GAE Is Safer for Many Patients

GAE has a very low complication rate. Side effects, when present, are usually mild—temporary skin redness or soreness.

By contrast, TKR carries risks such as:

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Nerve damage

• Long-term stiffness or poor implant alignment

For patients who are older, immunocompromised, diabetic, or at higher surgical risk, GAE is often the safer and more accessible choice.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we conduct a full pre-procedure screening to ensure GAE is a safe option based on your medical history. Learn more about vascular risk factors we assess.

💸 Cost and Insurance Considerations

While every case is different, GAE is generally more affordable than surgery—especially when you factor in:

• No hospital admission

• No rehab center or extended PT

• Less time off work

And the best part? GAE is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, when deemed medically necessary.

To get clarity on your specific coverage, visit our insurance information page.

📌 Quick Summary: Why Many Are Choosing GAE Over Surgery

GAE offers a bridge between conservative care and surgical intervention—a middle path that relieves pain without the trauma of surgery.

To see if you’re a candidate for this non-surgical option, book your free consultation today.

What Are the Benefits of GAE?

Imagine waking up without that familiar knee ache. No more wincing with each step, no more sleepless nights, and no more putting off the activities you love. This is what many patients experience after undergoing Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)—a treatment that provides not just pain relief, but a return to life as it should be.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we’ve seen firsthand how GAE transforms lives for people suffering from knee osteoarthritis. Below, we’ll walk you through the core benefits that make this procedure a game-changing alternative to knee replacement.

🩹 1. Significant Pain Relief Without Surgery

The most immediate and obvious benefit of GAE? It works.

GAE targets and reduces the blood flow to inflamed areas in the knee joint lining. This starves the inflammation, shrinking it and dramatically reducing pain. Patients often report improvements in:

• Resting pain

• Pain while walking or climbing stairs

• Swelling and stiffness

• Sleep quality

💬 One patient at our clinic said: “By week three, I could walk two miles again—no pills, no surgery. Just relief.”

Clinical studies back this up: 70% or more of patients experience meaningful, lasting pain reduction after GAE[^15^].

🕒 2. Fast Recovery and Return to Activities

Unlike knee replacement surgery, which can require up to 3 months of rehab, GAE patients are back on their feet almost immediately. Here’s what to expect:

• Outpatient procedure — go home the same day

• No stitches or surgical wounds — just a small bandage

• Back to most activities in 7–10 days

• Little to no need for post-procedure physical therapy

In fact, many patients tell us the most surprising part was just how easy the recovery was—often less disruptive than a cortisone shot.

Read more about our GAE recovery experience here.

🦵 3. Preserves Your Natural Knee

Unlike total knee replacement, which involves cutting bone and inserting a metal or plastic joint, GAE doesn’t alter your anatomy. That means:

• Your natural knee joint stays intact

• You can still undergo surgery later if needed

• There’s no risk of implant rejection or misalignment

• GAE won’t “burn the bridge” for future care

This is crucial for younger patients or those looking to delay surgery for several years. As we often say at VIM: “You can always do surgery later—why not try something less invasive first?”

🧘‍♂️ 4. Improved Quality of Life and Mobility

GAE isn’t just about reducing pain—it’s about getting your life back. After the procedure, many patients report:

• Increased walking distance

• Improved ability to go up/down stairs

• Resuming favorite activities like gardening, golfing, or dancing

• Better mood, sleep, and independence

Take this real-world example:

“Before GAE, I couldn’t stand more than 10 minutes. Now I’m walking around the farmers market every Saturday again. I have my weekends back.” – Karen W., Flint, MI

By improving physical function, GAE also helps patients reduce their use of pain medications—especially opioids—and feel more in control of their health.

🔐 5. Lower Risk of Complications

Because GAE is done through a needle puncture (not surgery), the risk profile is dramatically lower than that of joint replacement.

Most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as:

• Localized bruising

• Soreness at the injection site

• Low-grade inflammation for a few days

Compare that to the risks of surgery, which can include infection, deep vein thrombosis, blood clots, and even implant failure.

For patients with diabetes, heart issues, or other surgical risk factors, GAE offers peace of mind that they’re choosing the safest possible option.

Visit our page on vascular safety and recovery for more insights.

📈 6. Long-Lasting Results

Many people wonder: “How long does the relief from GAE last?” Studies show:

• Pain scores drop significantly within 2–4 weeks

• Results last 1 to 4 years on average

• GAE can be repeated safely if symptoms return

A review published in Endovascular Today found an 87% improvement in quality of life after 12 months, and many patients see benefits for several years[^15^].

This means you can enjoy lasting relief without sacrificing future options.

🏥 7. Covered by Insurance

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we accept most major insurance plans—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private carriers.

Because GAE is FDA-cleared and evidence-based, insurers now recognize it as a legitimate treatment for osteoarthritis-related knee pain. If you’re unsure about coverage, contact us directly and our team will verify your benefits.

A Simple Procedure, a Life-Changing Outcome

When pain is holding you back, it’s easy to feel like your options are limited. But GAE offers a path forward—one that’s minimally invasive, safe, and effective.

Whether you’re struggling to walk down the hallway or missing out on moments with your family, the results of GAE can change your life.

💬 “I thought surgery was my only option… until I found GAE. Now I don’t think I’ll ever need it.”

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of GAE?

While Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, we believe in full transparency at the Vascular Institute of Michigan. Like all medical treatments, GAE does come with potential side effects—even if they’re rare or mild in most cases.

So, what should you really expect?

Let’s break it down into common, uncommon, and rare risks, so you feel confident and informed before making a decision.

🟠 Common, Mild Side Effects

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during GAE. However, it’s completely normal to notice:

• Mild soreness or bruising at the catheter entry site (usually in the upper thigh or groin)

• A low-grade fever for 1–2 days post-procedure (a normal immune response to embolization)

• Temporary inflammation in the treated knee area (as the body adjusts to reduced blood flow)

• A sensation of warmth or dull ache in the knee for several days

These side effects typically resolve on their own within a week or less and are managed with over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol or Advil.

💡 “We tell patients: expect some minor soreness—it’s your body healing. But it’s a world apart from post-surgery pain,” says Dr. Mohammed Margni, MD, our board-certified vascular surgeon at VIM.

🟡 Less Common Side Effects

A smaller percentage of patients may report:

• Skin discoloration or minor bruising around the knee or catheter site

• Numbness or tingling due to localized inflammation

• Knee stiffness or swelling that temporarily increases before improving (often a sign that the embolization is actively working)

These symptoms are usually short-lived. In very rare cases, patients may require a follow-up visit to manage prolonged discomfort.

🔴 Rare but Serious Complications

While GAE is minimally invasive and low-risk, rare complications can occur, especially if performed by an inexperienced provider. At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, our team uses advanced imaging and precision techniques to minimize these risks.

Still, you should be aware of the following rare possibilities:

• Non-target embolization: Accidental blockage of a blood vessel not intended to be treated (extremely rare with image-guided embolization)

• Infection at the catheter site (preventable with proper hygiene and technique)

• Prolonged knee pain or delayed relief (more likely in patients with advanced “bone-on-bone” osteoarthritis or other complicating factors)

• Vascular injury or bleeding—this is rare and primarily a concern in patients with abnormal vascular anatomy or clotting disorders

We mitigate these risks through comprehensive screening, ultrasound evaluation, and by using the most advanced imaging tools in our outpatient-based lab.

⚖️ How GAE Risks Compare to Knee Replacement

Let’s be honest—every procedure has risk, but here’s the good news:

GAE carries far fewer systemic risks, especially for those with diabetes, heart conditions, or age-related surgical concerns.

Want to learn more about vascular safety and advanced procedures? Visit our page on outpatient care and patient recovery.

📋 How We Keep You Safe at VIM

Safety isn’t an afterthought—it’s our priority. Here’s what we do to ensure GAE is as safe and effective as possible:

• Pre-procedure vascular screening

• Sterile, hospital-grade outpatient environment

• Image-guided precision targeting

• Follow-up visits to monitor progress and address concerns

• 24/7 on-call access to our clinical team post-procedure

When you choose GAE at the Vascular Institute of Michigan, you’re choosing care that’s specialized, cautious, and deeply personal.

🧭 Patient Reassurance: What If It Doesn’t Work?

We’re often asked: “What if I get GAE and the pain doesn’t improve?”

Here’s our honest answer: GAE is highly effective for the right patients, but like any treatment, results can vary. Most patients see 50–70% pain reduction, and some even report full relief. If it doesn’t deliver the results you hoped for:

• You can still pursue a knee replacement later

• GAE won’t interfere with future procedures

• You’ll be no worse off—only more informed

This is why consultation and candidacy evaluation are so important. Schedule your consultation here and let’s find out if GAE is your best next step.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After GAE?

One of the biggest advantages of Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is just how simple and stress-free the recovery process is—especially compared to total knee replacement. Instead of weeks in a hospital or rehab facility, GAE patients are usually back to their daily lives in days, not months.

In this section, we’ll walk you through what to expect at each stage of recovery—from right after the procedure to long-term follow-up—so you can plan with confidence.

🕐 Immediately After the Procedure

Once the GAE procedure is complete (usually within 60–90 minutes), you’ll rest briefly in our comfortable outpatient recovery suite. Here’s what happens next:

• Observation for 1–2 hours to monitor your vital signs

• A nurse will check your puncture site and make sure you’re feeling stable

• You’ll receive clear post-procedure instructions

• In most cases, you’ll go home the same day

Because GAE is minimally invasive, no stitches, no anesthesia recovery, and no hospital admission are needed. Most patients walk out of the clinic with only a small bandage.

For a behind-the-scenes look at our treatment space, visit our Outpatient-Based Lab (OBL).

🛋️ First Few Days Post-GAE

During the first 2–5 days, you may experience:

• Mild bruising or soreness at the catheter insertion site

• A dull ache or warmth in the treated knee (a sign that the embolization is working)

• Slight fatigue as your body adjusts

These are all normal and usually go away quickly. Most patients find that they can:

• Walk unassisted the same day or next

• Resume desk work or light activities within 24–48 hours

• Sleep more comfortably after just a few nights

We recommend avoiding high-impact activities or strenuous exercise for the first week—but otherwise, your return to life happens fast.

🗓️ First 1–2 Weeks

Within 7–14 days, many patients begin to feel a noticeable reduction in knee pain. While every body heals at its own pace, this is typically when:

• Swelling begins to subside

• Mobility improves (walking, standing, stairs)

• You may reduce or eliminate pain medications

You’ll also have a follow-up visit scheduled with our team during this window. We’ll check in on:

• Your knee function and discomfort levels

• The insertion site healing

• Overall satisfaction and next steps

📈 First 1–3 Months: Continued Improvement

The full benefits of GAE often become more noticeable in the first 4 to 12 weeks. This is the “sweet spot” for most patients:

• 70%+ pain relief is common by 8–12 weeks

• Inflammation decreases significantly

• Range of motion improves

• Daily activities feel easier and less painful

💬 As one patient told us: “I kept waiting for a setback—but every week just got better. I was gardening again in under a month.”

You won’t need formal physical therapy, but we do encourage light stretching and movement to support circulation and joint mobility.

🔄 Long-Term Monitoring and Results

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we stay connected with our GAE patients long after the procedure. Here’s what we provide:

• Regular check-ins at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year

• Access to our team if new symptoms arise

• Patient education on joint health, mobility, and prevention

Many patients enjoy relief for 1–4 years after a single GAE session, and the procedure can be safely repeated if needed.

✅ What to Watch For (and When to Call Us)

While complications are rare, call our office if you experience:

• Excessive swelling or bleeding at the puncture site

• Fever over 101°F

• Sudden increase in knee pain or numbness

Your health and comfort are our top priorities. That’s why we offer 24/7 clinical support for all post-GAE patients.

Need help now? Reach out to our team directly.

🧭 Summary: What Makes GAE Recovery So Different?

In short, GAE recovery is simpler, safer, and faster—especially when performed by experienced specialists like the team at the Vascular Institute of Michigan..

How Does GAE Fit Into the Overall Treatment Plan for Knee Osteoarthritis?

Chronic knee pain isn’t usually solved by a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, osteoarthritis is best managed through a multidisciplinary approach, combining pain relief, movement support, and long-term joint preservation.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) isn’t a replacement for every other treatment—it’s a strategic option within a broader care plan. At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we work with patients to personalize that plan and help them regain their freedom from pain.

Here’s how GAE fits into the bigger picture.

🧩 GAE Among Other Non-Surgical Options

For patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, conservative treatments are often the first step:

• NSAIDs and topical pain relievers

• Steroid injections

• Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections

• Bracing and orthotics

• Physical therapy and movement coaching

But when these approaches stop working—or never really help at all—GAE becomes the next logical step. It fills the crucial gap between conservative management and total joint replacement, offering pain relief without invasive surgery.

GAE also doesn’t interfere with other treatments. In fact, it can make physical therapy or lifestyle changes more effective by reducing pain and improving mobility.

Learn more about osteoarthritis and how we treat it at our clinic.

🤝 Combining GAE with Other Therapies

Many patients find that a hybrid approach works best. After undergoing GAE, you may benefit from:

• Physical therapy – Easier to engage in after your pain is reduced

• Low-impact exercise routines – Swimming, cycling, or yoga to strengthen surrounding muscles

• Nutritional support – Reducing inflammation through anti-inflammatory foods or supplements

• Weight management – Taking pressure off the knee joint can prolong GAE benefits

We offer referrals and patient education to help support you before, during, and after GAE treatment.

Need help planning your post-GAE care? Get in touch with our team—we’ll walk you through your options.

🕰️ When to Consider GAE in the Treatment Timeline

Not sure where GAE fits into your personal journey? Here’s a general guideline we use with patients:

GAE is especially valuable for those in the moderate to advanced OA category, who want to avoid or delay surgery but are no longer benefiting from conservative options.

A detailed evaluation at the Vascular Institute of Michigan will help determine your exact stage and the best next step forward. Visit our GAE Services page to learn more about your treatment eligibility.

💬 Real Patient Experience: “GAE Gave Me My Options Back”

When Carlos, a 69-year-old former contractor from Owosso, came to our clinic, he had exhausted physical therapy and pain injections. He was told to “just wait until it gets bad enough for surgery.”

Instead, he chose GAE.

Not only did his pain drop by over 60% within weeks, but he also resumed his walking program and dropped 15 pounds—delaying surgery indefinitely. Today, he’s still pain-free and more active than he’s been in years.

Stories like Carlos’s are exactly why GAE is such a valuable option in the osteoarthritis toolkit.

How Can I Find Out If GAE Is Right for Me?

By now, you’ve learned what Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is, how it works, who it helps, and the life-changing results it delivers. The next step? Finding out if it’s the right option for you.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we’ve made the process simple, supportive, and patient-first—from the moment you reach out to your first post-procedure follow-up.

Here’s exactly what you can do to take the next step toward lasting knee pain relief.

👩‍⚕️ Step 1: Schedule a Consultation

Your journey begins with a personal consultation with one of our board-certified vascular specialists. During this appointment, we’ll:

• Review your medical history, imaging, and previous treatments

• Assess the severity of your osteoarthritis

• Perform vascular screening if needed

• Answer all your questions about GAE, knee health, and alternatives

You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your options, no pressure, and a recommendation based on your specific goals and lifestyle.

📅 Ready to get started? Book your consultation here.

❓ Step 2: Ask the Right Questions

Whether you’re meeting with us or speaking to another provider, here are some important questions to ask:

• Am I a good candidate for GAE based on my knee condition and medical history?

• What kind of pain relief should I expect, and how soon?

• Will GAE interfere with future knee surgery if needed?

• What are the potential risks or complications in my specific case?

• How long does recovery take, and what support is available after?

Need help preparing? Download our Patient Consultation Checklist to take with you to your appointment.

📚 Step 3: Explore Trusted Resources

The internet is full of noise. That’s why we recommend sticking with evidence-based, expert-reviewed resources. Here are a few to guide your research:

• GAE Overview – Vascular Institute of Michigan

• FAQ: GAE Procedure and Expectations

• Educational Articles and Blog

• Endovascular Today: GAE Outcomes

• UCSF Radiology: GAE Treatment Page

If you’re ready to reclaim your mobility and explore a powerful alternative to knee replacement, GAE may be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

Final Thoughts: From Pain to Possibility

Living with chronic knee pain can feel isolating, frustrating, and exhausting. But you don’t have to accept it as your new normal—and you don’t have to jump straight to surgery either.

Genicular Artery Embolization is helping people like you delay, avoid, or completely eliminate the need for knee replacement.

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we specialize in this cutting-edge, non-surgical solution—and we’re here to help you get back to doing what you love.

“You don’t realize how much pain has taken from you—until you finally get relief.”

Thank You for Reading!

If this article helped you better understand your options, we invite you to share it with someone who may be struggling with knee pain.

Let’s work together to bring hope, healing, and movement back—one step at a time.