Pain medication, hot and cold therapy, rest, activity modification, bracing — you’ve tried everything for your back pain, with temporary relief at best.
It’s time to stop spinning your wheels and explore something new: radiofrequency ablation.
This advanced, minimally invasive procedure isn’t right for everyone, but it’s right for a lot of our patients. In this blog, Dr. David Wu and our team at CurePain walk you through it all.
Radiofrequency ablation, often called RFA, is a procedure that reduces chronic pain by interrupting nerve signals that send pain messages to the brain.
During the treatment, we guide a specialized needle to the targeted nerve using imaging technology. Once we reach the correct location, we apply a controlled amount of heat generated by radiofrequency energy to the nerve tissue, disrupting the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
Because the treatment focuses on specific nerves, it allows us to address pain at its source without affecting surrounding structures.
We usually perform radiofrequency ablation on an outpatient basis and typically take less than an hour.
You lie comfortably while we clean and numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic. Using real-time imaging guidance, Dr. Wu carefully places a small needle near the targeted nerve. Once the needle is in position, we deliver radiofrequency energy through its tip to heat and deactivate the nerve.
Most patients remain awake during the procedure but feel minimal discomfort. Afterward, you can typically return home the same day.
Radiofrequency ablation is commonly used to treat back pain caused by irritated or damaged facet joints. These small joints connect the bones of the spine and allow your back to move and bend. Over time, arthritis, injury, or general wear and tear can cause inflammation in these joints.
When facet joints become painful, the nearby medial branch nerves carry pain signals to the brain. Radiofrequency ablation targets those nerves.
The procedure is often recommended for patients experiencing:
We consider it after other treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections have provided limited relief.
One of the main advantages of radiofrequency ablation is that it can provide longer-lasting relief compared with many other treatments.
You should notice the first signs of pain reduction within a few weeks after the procedure, with results continuing to improve over the following months.
Many patients enjoy pain relief that can last six months to a year, or longer for some. Over time, the treated nerve may regenerate, which means symptoms can eventually return. However, we can repeat the procedure if necessary. With less pain, you can stay more active and participate more fully in physical therapy or exercise programs that support long-term spinal health.
Not every patient with back pain is a candidate for radiofrequency ablation. We recommend the procedure only after confirming that specific nerves are responsible for the pain.
We determine this through diagnostic nerve blocks. If temporary injections near the suspected nerves significantly reduce pain, it suggests that radiofrequency ablation may be effective for longer-term relief.
Patients who benefit most from radiofrequency ablation generally:
Our pain management specialist can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine whether this treatment may be appropriate.
Chronic back pain can limit mobility, disrupt sleep, and affect overall quality of life. When traditional treatments aren’t enough, radiofrequency ablation may offer a minimally invasive option for longer-lasting relief.
Ready to see if you’re a candidate? Get started with your pain relief journey by calling our friendly staff or using our online booking tool to schedule a consultation.
