Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Treatment for Pain Management
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Treatment Overview
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment that targets specific nerves to reduce or eliminate pain. It is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions like back pain, neck pain and joint arthritis — especially when other treatments have not provided adequate relief.
How the RFA Procedure Works
During the procedure, a special needle is carefully placed near the nerve causing pain, using imaging like X-rays or ultrasound for guidance. Once in position, the needle then delivers heat generated by radiofrequency energy, creating a small lesion on the nerve. This disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain, leading to pain relief.
RFA Techniques
Radiofrequency neurotomy ablation of the cervical facets treats chronic neck pain caused by problems in the facet joints of the cervical spine (the neck area). These joints, located between the vertebrae, can become a source of pain due to arthritis, injury or wear and tear.
This treatment is often recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other therapies, such as medications or physical therapy.
Radiofrequency neurotomy ablation of the thoracic facets is used to treat chronic pain in the mid-back area, specifically caused by problems in the facet joints of the thoracic spine. These joints, which connect the vertebrae, can become painful due to arthritis, injury, or degeneration over time.
This treatment is often recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other therapies, such as medications or physical therapy.
Radiofrequency neurotomy ablation of the lumbar facets is used to treat chronic lower back pain caused by facet joint and nerve irritation in the lumbar spine. These joints, located between the vertebrae in the lower back, can become painful due to conditions like arthritis, injury or wear and tear over time.
This treatment is often recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other therapies, such as medications or physical therapy.
What to Expect
- Preparation: The procedure takes place in our same-day surgery center and does not require an overnight stay. You’ll change into a surgical robe and may receive sedation or local anesthesia.
- Procedure: Using imaging, your provider will place a needle near the nerve and apply radiofrequency energy.
- Recovery: Recovery time for radiofrequency ablation is fairly minimal. Afterward, you’ll be monitored briefly. Mild soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain meds.
RFA FAQ
Radiofrequency ablation is used for chronic pain when other treatments haven’t helped enough. At Nura, it’s commonly used for pain from issues like facet joint problems in the neck, mid-back or lower back, and other chronic back or neck pain related to joint wear and tear or arthritis.
The procedure itself usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on how many nerves are being treated and where they are.
Yes, you may receive sedation or local anesthesia so you’re comfortable during the procedure. At Nura, the treatment happens in a same-day surgery setting where anesthesia is provided as appropriate.
Radiofrequency ablation can be repeated if pain returns after a period of relief. The treated nerves can recover over time, which may allow pain signals to return. If the procedure was effective before and the source of pain is the same, it may be appropriate to repeat it.
Before radiofrequency ablation, Nura’s team will review your medications, medical history and any imaging needed to guide the procedure. You may be given instructions about eating or drinking ahead of time and whether someone should drive you home, depending on the type of anesthesia used. Following the care team’s guidance helps ensure the procedure goes smoothly and safely.
During the procedure, you’ll lie comfortably while imaging (like X-ray) guides a thin needle near the nerves that are sending pain signals. Radiofrequency energy then heats the targeted nerves to disrupt their ability to send pain messages. You’ll be monitored throughout, and after a short recovery period you’ll be able to go home the same day.
Insurance & Billing
Your eligibility for any procedure depends on the benefits outlined by your insurance provider, and our team at Nura will assist you with the authorization process.
Comprehensive Care
At Nura, we seamlessly integrate interventional procedures, physical therapy, psychological support and medications. Research shows that this comprehensive approach is the most effective way to manage chronic pain.
Find Pain Relief
Schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists by filling out our appointment request form or giving us a call at 763-537-6000.
