Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation is a non-surgical treatment that uses highly advanced radiofrequency energy to address a wide range of common issues related to chronic pain.

Address Chronic Pain with Radiofrequency Ablation

Chronic pain can start off small, presenting you with little more than a minor inconvenience. Over time, however, different types of chronic pain can become more and more serious. Eventually, chronic pain can start to have a serious impact on your overall quality of life, keeping you from enjoying the activities that bring you happiness, altering your moods, and preventing you from sleeping peacefully. If this sounds anything like your experience, the Advanced Relief Institute is here to help with a number of highly effective, non-surgical procedure options like radiofrequency ablation.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that helps patients by effectively reducing the presence of frustrating, chronic pain. It involves using radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy the nerve fibers carrying pain signals to the brain.

The main therapeutic goal of RFA is to provide lasting pain relief by deactivating the nerves responsible for sending pain signals while also helping us identify the specific nerves causing your pain, ensuring that the treatment is accurately targeted. This dual approach can ensure accurate pain signal interruption and spondylosis pain management.

Radiofrequency ablation is a common non-surgical procedure loved by patients for its ability to effectively offer long-lasting pain relief. Ready to learn more? Reach out to the Advanced Relief Institute and set up your initial consultation at one of our convenient locations today.

How Is Radiofrequency Ablation Performed?

RFA is typically performed with the patient under local anesthesia and mild sedation. To begin your procedure, you will lie on your stomach or back, depending on the specifics of your treatment area. Your practitioner will carefully cleanse the treatment area before then applying a numbing agent to ensure your overall comfort.

Using fluoroscopy-guided technology (X-ray), your physician will then insert a thin needle into the targeted nerve tissue. A microelectrode will then be introduced through the needle, delivering radiofrequency energy that heats the nerve and interrupts its ability to transmit pain signals. The entire procedure usually takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete.

Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions

Before Your RFA Treatment Session

We recommend that you arrange for someone to drive you home after your radiofrequency ablation procedure, as the sedatives we use to keep you comfortable may also impair your ability to drive safely. You’ll have a chance to discuss your current medication regimen with your physician, especially if you’re taking blood thinners or have diabetes, as adjustments may be necessary.

You will want to avoid eating or drinking for a specified period before the procedure if sedation is planned, and it will be important to make sure you report any recent illnesses, infections, or fever to your physician, as these could affect the procedure’s timing.

After the Procedure

Most patients plan to take it easy and rest for the remainder of the day. You’ll be able to resume normal activities as soon as you feel up to doing so. For most patients, this is usually the next day. You may experience some soreness at the injection site or a temporary increase in nerve pain, which can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers.

You will want to avoid soaking in water (baths, pools, hot tubs) for a couple of days to allow the puncture sites to heal and watch for any signs of infection or complications—such as excessive swelling, redness, or discharge at the injection sites. If you notice them, be sure to reach out to us and report them to your doctor as quickly as possible. We’ll also be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment that lets us evaluate the effectiveness of the RFA treatment and set up further treatment sessions, if necessary.

Say Goodbye to Chronic Pain with Advanced RFA Treatments

The pain relief you enjoy after your RFA treatment can last from six months to several years. If the pain returns, you can simply schedule another appointment at the Advanced Relief Institute to repeat the procedure. Additionally, your doctor may recommend adjunct therapies like physical therapy, medication management, or other interventional pain treatments to complement the effects of RFA and further improve your pain management and quality of life.

Here at the Advanced Relief Institute, we don’t believe that chronic pain should be an accepted fact of life. We take a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, understanding that every patient is unique. As such, we tailor each and every care plan to the individual patient and unique needs, ensuring that each one of them receives the most effective and personalized care possible. Ready to learn more? Reach out to the Advanced Care Institute and set up your initial consultation with a helpful member of our team today.