Radiofrequency ablation or radiofrequency neurotomy uses heat to disrupt nerve signals to the brain and is considered a non-surgical treatment to chronic pain of the spine or neck. Ideal for pain associated with the neck, lower back, or arthritis, RBA can be an effective pain management treatment when other more conservative treatments have failed. Learn more about radiofrequency ablation at Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates (MSSP) in Corinth and if this treatment could be right for you.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
RFA uses radio waves or a current that produce heat to destroy a small area of nerve to prevent pain signals from being sent to the brain. It is especially helpful for people experiencing chronic pain in the neck, lower back, or arthritic joints, targeting the genicular nerve branches in particular. Not only can RFA reduce pain, but also improve mobility and function, delay surgery, and reduce a person’s reliance on pain medication.
The Procedure
A small hollow needle is inserted into the targeted area with an electrode attached to the other end of the needle. The electrode sends radio waves like a current through the needle and into the targeted area. This produces heat that causes a lesion on the nerve, ceasing the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain. Nearby soft tissue and other nerves are not affected. RFA is an outpatient procedure that takes between 15 minutes and two hours to complete, depending on the number of treatment areas. This outpatient procedure is performed under local anesthetic so that you remain awake and responsive during your treatment.
RFA may be ideal to treat the following:
- Spondylosis
- Arthritis pain
- Cancer pain
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Peripheral nerve pain
- Heart rhythm problems
- SI joint pain
- Neck pain
- Back (or low back) pain
Preparing for Your Procedure
Your pain management specialist near Jackson will review your complete medical history and discuss with you details about your pain to determine if you are a candidate for RFA. You may also undergo imaging or receive x-rays to determine your precise diagnosis or rule out other spinal or joint problems. Often times, patients considering RFA may receive a diagnostic block test before undergoing an RFA procedure to determine the exact nerve that requires treatment. In the event that the diagnostic nerve block does not provide significant pain relief, then RFA may not be right for you.
After Your Procedure
Plan on having a trusted individual drive you home following your appointment. You should rest and avoid driving or doing any strenuous activity for the first 24 hours following your treatment. In most cases, patients can resume showering, driving and other usual activities within one to two days.
Expect to feel soreness and tenderness at the treatment site for a few days. Your pain management specialist will provide you with post-op care instructions, including how to manage any discomfort that you may experience. However, applying ice packs for 20 minutes several times a day may help relieve discomfort. And in some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to regain mobility and strength. A follow-up appointment is usually helpful so that your pain management specialist near Tupelo can assess your progress and the treatments effectiveness.
Pain relief from RFA may occur within a week or it may take up to three weeks to experience a reduction in symptoms. Additionally, the results may last between six and 12 months, although in some cases relief may last for several years. Since the treated nerve can regenerate, repeat treatments may be necessary for some individuals.
Risks and Complications
RFA risks and complications remain low, although in rare cases, permanent nerve damage or pain may occur. Infection and bleeding at the treatment site are also rare, but possible. Additionally, there have been some reports that patients feel a burning sensation or discomfort during their treatment that is described as similar discomfort to what they already experience with the affected nerve. These sensations may occur up to two weeks after your treatment but can be managed with at-home pain relief techniques. If you experience severe pain, redness or swelling at the treatment site or have increased weakness or numbness in your extremities (arms or legs), contact your pain specialist immediately.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Pain Management in Southwest Tennessee and North Mississippi, including Tupelo, MS and Jackson, TN
If you experience chronic pain in your neck or back that has not responded well to other more conservative treatments, then radiofrequency ablation may be right for you. To learn more about this procedure or to find out if you are a candidate, contact Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates by calling (662) 284-8565.