Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally-invasive treatment used to treat orthopedic pain. It works to temporarily disable the nerves that carry pain signals to the brain in an effort to provide temporary but longer-lasting relief to patients suffering from chronic pain. It is rarely a standalone treatment and is often used in conjunction with other treatment procedures.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses an electric current generated by radio waves to apply heat to nerve tissue and disable it. Patients who suffer from chronic neck, lower back, pelvic, and knee pain, peripheral nerve pain, or joint pain due to arthritis can benefit from this treatment. Pain relief is immediate and requires little to no recovery time. For many, it has delayed the need for surgery and reduced reliance on pain medication.
Of course, not every patient will necessarily benefit from radiofrequency ablation. But a good indicator that the treatment will produce the desired results is if you also experience relief from nerve block injections.
How The Treatment Is Done
The first step of the treatment is to administer anesthetic medication intravenously. You will either be on your stomach or back, depending on the location of the pain. The physician will insert a needle near the location of the pain and deliver radio waves to the nerves in the area.
To make sure that the needle is in the right place and in the proper position, your doctor will ask if you are experiencing a tingling sensation. Your doctor may use imaging tools, such as a fluoroscopic x-ray, when performing the procedure. The entire procedure can be completed in an outpatient setting and you can go home on the same day. However, you need to take it easy for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Do not drive or engage in rigorous activities.
Most patients experience relief from pain for anywhere between six months to a year after a radiofrequency ablation session. However, it’s not unheard of for patients to experience permanent relief from pain after the procedure.
Can You Benefit From Radiofrequency Ablation?
The answer is, it depends. Patients with infections and bleeding problems are not recommended for this procedure. The treatment has shown to be very successful in patients who experience good results from nerve block injections. However, the only way to find out for sure is to see an orthopedic specialist that specializes in interventional pain procedures.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Lumbar Pain in Boynton Beach, FL
If you are experiencing chronic back pain that is disrupting your life, the compassionate and talented orthopedic physicians at Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches can perform a comprehensive evaluation of your condition and recommend the most appropriate pain-relieving treatment for you.
We not only offer radiofrequency ablation to our patients, but also provide other interventional treatments, such as SI joint injections, nerve block injections, trigger point injections, and more. Our goal is to provide patients with immediate relief from debilitating pain.
To request an appointment, call Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches at (561) 733-5888 or submit a request today. Our friendly staff is ready to provide assistance.
