What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Living with pain is not easy. In fact, it is one of the most debilitating things a person may experience. Chronic pain may even make even the simplest of tasks seem like an insurmountable mountain. When conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, and injections do not seem to alleviate the pain, other more advanced treatment options like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be suggested. This is a procedure that aims to alleviate pain by targeting the nerves that transmit pain signals to the brain.
How Does RFA Work?
Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves. A special kind of needle is inserted into the affected nerve with the aid of imaging technology. The heat is then used to interrupt the nerve’s ability to transmit pain. This interruption of the pain signals may result in a reduction of pain in the affected area.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
RFA is typically performed on patients with:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Pain due to arthritis
- Pain due to facet joint pain
- Sacroiliac joint pain
Patients with temporary pain relief following nerve blocks may benefit from this treatment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
This is done on an outpatient basis, and the entire process takes less than one hour. A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area, and patients may be given mild sedation to ensure their comfort. The precise location of the needle is determined using images, and then radiofrequency is applied.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation
- Minimally invasive with no significant incisions
- Fast recovery period
- Long-lasting pain relief that may last from months to a year or longer
- Reduced need for pain medications
Recovery and Results
Generally, patients are able to resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours after radiofrequency ablation treatment. Some may feel some soreness in the area that received treatment, but this is temporary and will go away soon. It may take a few days for the pain relief to be felt, but it will last for a long period.
Is RFA Right for You?
Not all patients are candidates for radiofrequency ablation treatment. A thorough assessment is required to determine whether this treatment option is right for your condition and your medical history. The APC Pain Care staff is well-equipped and knowledgeable in providing personalized care plans for each patient to ensure that they get the best results from radiofrequency ablation treatment.
