Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive pain treatment that utilizes electrical currents produced by radio waves to warm small areas of the affected nerve tissue which decreases the pain in that particular area. Once the radiofrequency waves “burn” or ablate, it eliminates the sending of pain signals from the nerve to the brain.
This treatment is helpful for patients who have chronic low back and neck pain that’s typically caused by the degeneration of joints from arthritis.
Common Conditions Treated by Radiofrequency Ablation
The most common conditions patients have when being treated by radiofrequency ablation are:
- Arthritis
- Lower back pain
- Whiplash
Patients who have had prior surgery to the neck or low back are usually not good candidates for artificial disc replacement.
Facts About Radiofrequency Ablation
- Non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure
- The procedure is less than two hours
- Patients usually go home the same day
- Relief can last up to one year or more
- Most patients experience immediate pain relief
Candidates for radiofrequency ablation typically suffer from chronic and unresolved neck or back pain. Most patients have tried conservative methods such as:
- Medications
- Physical therapy
Sometimes these methods aren’t effective in managing the pain. When this happens, radiofrequency ablation could be the next step in managing pain and discomfort.
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure which means it does not require a surgical incision. The procedure involves creating heat lesions on nerves that appear to be the cause of chronic pain. These lesions are placed carefully and hinder the nerve’s ability to function and send pain signals
The majority of patients experience pain relief in as little as two weeks after the procedure. Benefits have been known to last from six months to several years. Results vary by patient.
If you’re experiencing chronic pain that can’t be managed by conservative treatments, you may be a candidate for radiofrequency ablation. To see if you’re a candidate, click the button below.