Living with constant pain can affect every area of your life. From limiting physical activity to impacting work and normal day-to-day activities, it can leave you searching for effective pain management solutions. However, there is hope. For those suffering from long-term pain or looking for a spine injury treatment that works, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) might be the answer you have been seeking.
This guide will help you understand what RFA is and how it can bring welcome relief to your symptoms.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to target specific nerve tissues in the body. It works by destroying the problematic area of the nerve, thereby “switching off” the nerves that send pain signals to the brain. RFA can provide significant relief for many patients, particularly those experiencing chronic pain in the neck, back, and joints.
How Does RFA Work in Pain Management
RFA works by using an electric current to heat up a small area of nerve tissue. This stops the nerve from transmitting pain signals. The aim of radiofrequency ablation is to:
- Alleviate or stop pain.
- Enhance overall function.
- Reduce reliance on pain relief medications.
- Postpone or prevent the need for surgery.
Conditions Treated with RFA
RFA has been found to be effective in treating various conditions that result in pain in the neck, upper back, and lower back, including:
- Herniated or bulging discs – where the tissue between the vertebrae gets damaged, often the result of aging or injury.
- Degenerative disc disease – wear and tear on spinal discs.
- Facet joint arthritis – arthritis affecting the small joints between the vertebrae in the spine.
- Sciatica – pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg.
- Spine injuries – resulting from falls, car accidents, and sports-related injuries.
The RFA Procedure: What to Expect
RFA is typically carried out as an outpatient procedure. It can take 15 minutes to two hours to complete, depending on the location and number of treatments necessary. It is an effective, straightforward pain management procedure that requires minimal downtime.
Preparation
You will be asked to wear a gown and lie face down on a special X-ray table. You may be offered medication to help you relax during the procedure. The area where the needle will be inserted is sterilized and then numbed using a local anesthetic.
Insertion
Using a live X-ray, called fluoroscopy, the doctor guides a thin needle-like tube (cannula) to the affected nerve. Your doctor will conduct a simple test to confirm the correct nerve has been targeted. This involves delivering a very mild electric current via a microelectrode to the nerve. If you experience any tingling sensations, discomfort, or muscle twitches, it confirms the correct positioning has been identified.
Treatment
The target area is numbed using a local anesthetic. Heat is then applied to the problematic nerve using an electrode. This creates a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to your brain. Sometimes, more than one nerve may be treated during the procedure.
Completion
Once completed, the cannula and electrode are removed, and you will be monitored before going home. You will need another person to drive you home after your RFA procedure.
Aftercare
Your doctor may prescribe rest, pain-relief medication, and the use of ice packs to ease any discomfort. You should avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours. You will be advised to use care while resuming your regular activities for several days until any soreness has subsided.
Benefits of RFA
The benefits of RFA include:
- Significant, long-lasting pain relief
- Non-surgical
- Minimal downtime
- Outpatient procedure
Risks of RFA
RFA is considered a safe procedure, and the risk of complications is minimal. However, as with any type of procedure, there can be side effects and risks to be aware of, such as:
- Temporary pain and numbness
- Temporary/permanent nerve damage
- Incomplete pain relief or a worsening of symptoms
- Infection and bleeding at the needle site
Success Rates
It may take a few weeks before the full benefits of RFA are felt. But, according to research, many patients experience relief for 6-12 months, with some experiencing pain relief for a few years.
Over time, the treated nerve can grow back, but not everyone will experience pain again. If necessary, RFA can be repeated in the future.
Who Is a Candidate for RFA?
To determine if you are a candidate for RFA, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, carry out a physical examination, and ask you questions about your pain and other symptoms. They will evaluate any medications you are taking, as some medicines, like aspirin or other blood thinners, may need to be stopped several days before the procedure. X-rays or other imaging tests may be requested to assess your anatomy and condition and to ensure you are a candidate for treatment.
Radiofrequency ablation provides lower back pain relief and is an effective neck pain treatment, bulging disc treatment, and sciatica pain treatment. RFA may be suitable for you if you experience:
- Persistent pain that does not respond to other treatments, like medication or physical therapy.
- Pain relief after a nerve block injection indicating that the specific nerve is the source of your pain and an appropriate target for RFA treatment.
However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for RFA. This includes people who are pregnant and have a bleeding disorder or an active infection.
Radiofrequency Ablation in Rochester Hills, MI
At Ahlgren Spine, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthopaedic problems related to the spine. Our team, led by Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren, offers advanced surgical, non-surgical, and minimally invasive techniques, such as RFA, to relieve pain and restore mobility. Our goal is to pinpoint the source of your pain and develop a tailored treatment plan that effectively addresses the issue, ensuring the best possible outcome.
To start your journey to better spine health, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
