Radiofrequency Ablation – A Cutting-Edge Solution for Chronic Pain Relief

Executive Spine and Pain Team
Jul 24
3 min read

Updated: Sep 11

Tags: Radiofrequency Ablation, Pain Management, Nerve Pain

Chronic pain can be physically draining and emotionally exhausting. For those who haven’t found lasting relief through medications or physical therapy, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) offers a breakthrough. This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves responsible for pain, providing effective, long-lasting relief without the need for major surgery or heavy medication use.

Medical illustration showing a radiofrequency ablation procedure targeting nerves in the spine to relieve chronic pain.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated from radio waves to precisely target and disable nerves that are sending pain signals to the brain. By interrupting this communication, RFA helps reduce or eliminate chronic pain at its source.

It’s commonly used for:

Arthritis-related joint pain (especially in the spine, knees, and hips)
Facet joint syndrome
Chronic neck and lower back pain
Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
Certain types of neuropathic pain

How Does RFA Work?

The procedure is performed by a pain management specialist and typically follows these steps:

Imaging Guidance: Using fluoroscopy (X-ray) or ultrasound, the physician positions a thin needle precisely near the targeted nerve.
Nerve Testing: Sensory and motor nerve stimulation confirm accurate needle placement, ensuring only the pain-transmitting nerves are treated.
Ablation: Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle, heating the nerve tissue to safely interrupt its ability to send pain signals.
Outpatient Procedure: RFA is done under local anesthesia, takes less than an hour, and most patients go home the same day.

What Are the Benefits of RFA?

✅ Interrupts Pain Signals By disrupting the nerves that transmit pain, RFA can provide substantial and often long-lasting relief from chronic discomfort.

✅ Minimally Invasive & Low Risk No incisions, general anesthesia, or hospital stays. RFA uses a small needle and offers minimal downtime, especially compared to surgical options.

✅ Reduces or Eliminates Medication Use Patients often reduce or discontinue daily medications—including opioids—after the procedure.

✅ Restores Mobility and Daily Function With less pain, many regain the ability to move more freely, return to work or hobbies, and improve their emotional well-being.

✅ Long-Lasting Relief Results typically last 6 months to over a year, depending on the individual and condition treated. Since nerves may regenerate, the procedure can be repeated if needed.

Who Is a Good Candidate for RFA?

Radiofrequency ablation may be ideal if you:

Have chronic pain in the spine, neck, hips, or knees related to arthritis or joint degeneration
Have not responded to conservative treatments like medications or physical therapy
Want to avoid or delay surgery due to health risks or personal preference

What to Expect After the Procedure

Most patients begin noticing pain relief within a few days to two weeks post-procedure. Side effects are generally minimal—mild soreness or bruising at the needle site—and most people resume normal activities within a day or two.

Because nerve tissue can regenerate over time, repeat treatments may be needed down the road to maintain relief.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency ablation is a safe, effective, and proven technique for managing chronic pain. By precisely targeting the nerves causing your discomfort, RFA helps you take back control of your life, with less pain, fewer medications, and more freedom to move.

If chronic pain is affecting your ability to live fully, ask your healthcare provider whether radiofrequency ablation might be right for you.