The radiofrequency ablation (RFA) process can provide months of relief from pain by using a controlled application of heat to interfere with certain nerves responsible for transmitting pain messages to the brain. Relief can last between six and 12 months in appropriately chosen candidates, and the process can be repeated once the nerve regrows.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is one of the minimally invasive methods of pain management. This procedure utilizes radiofrequency energy to heat a very small segment of the targeted nerve.
This heat prevents the nerve from transmitting pain impulses. Radiofrequency ablation is usually recommended for the treatment of selected cases of chronic pain in necks, lower backs, arthritic joints, and nerves.
Imagine the nerve as a telecommunication wire; radiofrequency ablation stops the transmission of pain impulse along this wire.
How Does RFA Work?
RFA begins with the process of diagnosis. In your case, your pain doctor diagnoses the nerve that causes your pain.
A diagnostic nerve block may be used to verify the cause. When the block is effective in giving you some relief, RFA becomes a treatment option.
When using RFA, your doctor will introduce a needle to the affected nerve through radiofrequency energy.
It doesn’t aim at affecting all nerves; the specific nerve that sends the pain signal is the focus here.
Who May Benefit From RFA?
There is some evidence that RFA could be beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic pain which cannot be alleviated through other means of therapy.
The most common cases where RFA would be prescribed are when there is pain in particular joints or nerves.
These include such conditions as spinal arthritis, facet joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, cervical pain, lumbar pain, among others.
However, there are types of pain that cannot be treated by RFA.
What Happens During Treatment?
The process starts with position and preparations. Your doctor will use image guidance in placing the needle close to the selected nerve.
The time taken for the procedure may depend on how many nerves are being targeted. Cleveland Clinic indicates that an RFA process could take between 15 minutes and 2 hours.
Most patients are released to go home soon after the procedure is performed. Some muscle spasms or pains may be experienced within several days.
Some physical therapy or pain management techniques may be suggested by your doctor.
How Long Does RFA Relief Last?
RFA can provide relief for months. Cleveland Clinic reports that pain relief may last six to 12 months, while some patients experience relief for longer.
Why doesn’t relief last forever? Treated nerves can regenerate.
When the nerve grows back, pain may return. If RFA previously worked well and the pain source remains appropriate, your physician may consider repeating the procedure.
FAQs
Is RFA permanent?
No. RFA isn’t considered a permanent solution. The treated nerve can regenerate, and pain may eventually return.
Is radiofrequency ablation surgery?
No. RFA is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure rather than traditional surgery.
How quickly does RFA work?
Some people notice relief soon after treatment. Others may need several days or up to a few weeks before they notice the full effect.
Can RFA treat back pain?
Yes, in selected cases. RFA may help when back pain comes from specific nerves associated with facet joints or other appropriate pain sources.
Does everyone qualify for RFA?
No. A physician needs to identify the pain source and determine whether RFA fits the condition, medical history, and previous treatment response.
Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation can offer months of relief when a specific nerve is driving chronic pain. The key is proper diagnosis and patient selection.
For people dealing with persistent back, neck, joint, or nerve pain, RFA may be one option worth discussing with a pain specialist.
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