Coolief

What is Coolief?

Coolief is a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure using cooled radiofrequency technology to reduce or eliminate chronic hip or knee pain.

Treatments are delivered through specialized needles inserted into the area to be treated. The needles emit cooled radiofrequency into the treatment area. This safely burns away sensory nerves to stop them from transmitting pain signals.

Pain relief usually begins one to two weeks after Coolief treatment. On average, Coolief treatments provide pain relief for nine months. Pain relief lasts until the nerves regenerate and function normally. The rate of regeneration depends on the individual and the location of the nerve being treated. Additional Coolief treatments may be needed to extend pain relief.

Because Coolief treatments don’t involve drugs or pharmaceuticals, they offer an alternative to prescription opioids for people with chronic hip or knee pain, including those with persistent pain after total joint replacement surgeries. Coolief helps reduce dependence on prescription opioids for pain management.

Coolief treatments are covered by most insurance plans.

What happens before treatment?

Your physician will discuss your medications, health conditions and health history with you, and will provide instructions for the procedure. You should have a responsible adult drive you home after treatment.

What happens after treatment?

Most people who have Coolief treatments experience improved function in their hip or knee. Some people return to normal activity within several days of treatment; for others, it may take a few weeks. Your physician will develop a post-treatment plan for you.

Side effects are comparable to other needle-based treatments, such as localized but minimal pain, bruising, swelling, tenderness, tingling or numbness. Such side effects usually clear up quickly on their own. Any discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications as directed by your physician.