Radiofrequency Ablation: Long-Lasting Relief from Chronic Nerve Pain
Ajith Nair, M.D.
Interventional Pain Management located in Louisville, KY & Elizabethtown, KY
When chronic neck, back, or joint pain is caused by a specific irritated nerve, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) can be a life-changing solution. This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to “stun” the nerve, preventing it from sending pain signals to the brain. At Kentuckiana Pain Specialists, we use RFA to provide our patients with significant, long-lasting pain relief that can last for months, or even more than a year.
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At Kentuckiana Pain Specialists we offer extensive cervical facet joint treatment. We have been in business since 1992 and has offered quality treatments for your neck pain. Call 502-995-4004 today.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Stop Pain?
RFA, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a precise procedure that targets the small nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from arthritic or inflamed joints. Using a specialized needle, we apply a gentle radiofrequency current to the nerve. This creates heat and forms a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to communicate pain, all without affecting normal sensation or muscle function.
The Most Important Step: Confirming the Target with a Nerve Block
We never perform RFA without first confirming that we have the right target. To do this, you will first undergo a simple diagnostic procedure called a medial branch block or nerve block.
- We inject a small amount of local anesthetic onto the target nerve.
- If you experience significant pain relief for the next few hours, we have successfully confirmed that this nerve is the source of your pain.
- This positive result makes you an excellent candidate for the long-lasting relief provided by RFA.
What Conditions Does RFA Treat?
RFA is most effective for chronic pain originating from the facet joints of the spine or the sacroiliac (SI) joints. This includes:
- Facet Joint Syndrome: Arthritis-related pain in the neck (cervical) or lower back (lumbar).
- Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain: Pain in the lower back and buttock area.
- Chronic Neck and Back Pain that has been confirmed by diagnostic blocks.
Once the needle is in place, Dr. Nair passes the radiofrequency current through it to create a lesion on your nerve. The lesion destroys the area of your nerve that transmits pain signals to your brain. Based on your needs, Dr. Nair can treat multiple nerves during the same procedure.
The Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure: What to Expect
The RFA procedure is performed in our office and is very similar to the diagnostic block.
- You will lie comfortably while we clean and numb the area with a local anesthetic.
- Using X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance, your physician will place a thin needle precisely at the target nerve.
- A microelectrode is inserted, and a small current is passed to confirm the correct placement.
- The radiofrequency current is then applied to heat the nerve for 60-90 seconds.
- The process is repeated for any other target nerves. The entire procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About RFA
When will I feel pain relief after RFA?
You may experience some temporary soreness immediately after the procedure. Full pain relief from radiofrequency ablation typically develops over the next 2–3 weeks as the treated nerves fully respond.
How long does RFA pain relief last?
Results can be significant, with many patients experiencing pain relief for 6 to 18 months. If the nerve regenerates and symptoms return, the procedure can be safely repeated.
Is the RFA procedure painful?
The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic, so most patients feel only mild pressure. Light sedation is also available to ensure comfort during the procedure.