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When Is Radiofrequency Ablation Recommended?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses high-energy electromagnetic waves to generate heat in order to disable nerves that carry pain impulses. The procedure is recommended for people who have tried therapeutic injections but received only temporary pain relief. Radiofrequency ablation treats the same symptoms as surgery but has the potential to relieve pain for a longer period of time.
RFA is available here at aCELLerated Interventional Orthopedics for the treatment of chronic back and neck pain. We are an interventional spine and orthopedic practice dedicated to treating chronic and acute back, neck, and spine conditions and injuries.
Our board-certified interventional pain management specialist, Dr. Brian Rich, uses the most advanced treatment methods to help people living with chronic pain find relief, achieve improved function, and have a better quality of life.
Radiofrequency ablation brings pain relief
RFA is a minimally invasive interventional treatment that can help patients with back pain, neck pain, and certain types of joint pain. An electrical current generated by radio waves is used in this procedure to heat up an affected area of nerve tissue in the spine, reducing pain signals to the brain from that specific area.
Radiofrequency ablation has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective method of treating certain types of pain. RFA can provide pain relief for six to 12 months on average and can last for two years in some cases.
In many cases, a medial branch block will be used before radiofrequency ablation to confirm the source of the pain.
What happens during the procedure?
Dr. Rich uses a special type of X-ray to direct a tiny needle into the area causing your pain. The special X-ray allows him to see the needle on a monitor in real time to ensure proper insertion into the target area.
During the procedure, you remain awake and can talk to Dr. Rich and provide feedback. To keep you comfortable, a low-dose sedative may be administered. After inserting the needle, Dr. Rich administers numbing medication before the radiofrequency current is delivered through the needle to the target nerve.
What happens after radiofrequency ablation?
The majority of patients feel good enough to get up and walk around immediately following the procedure. Dr. Rich may monitor you for a short period of time. Within one to three, days most patients are back to their normal routine.
Some patients experience immediate pain relief. In other cases, patients notice optimal pain relief within 10 days of the procedure.
Who can radiofrequency help?
Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment option for patients who experienced pain relief following a diagnostic nerve block. RFA may be appropriate for patients with chronic low back or neck pain. It may also benefit patients with degenerative arthritis. While RFA isn’t a permanent fix, it can relieve pain and delay or eliminate the need for surgery.
Relief from chronic pain
If you’re experiencing pain, our pain management specialist can evaluate you and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you find the most effective option to bring relief. Our mission is to assist you in managing your pain so you can feel and function better.
To get started, callone of our offices to set up a consultation with Dr. Rich. We have offices in Southlake, Texas, and Lawton, Oklahoma.
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