What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive method used by pain specialists to stop or reduce pain signals from the body. For the process, a pain specialist relies on x-ray guidance to place a needle in the appropriate area of nerves and then inserts an electrode through the needle. The electrode creates a high-frequency, alternating electrical current generated via radio waves which the pain specialist uses to create a heat lesion on the nerves. Once they ablate or burn the nerve, it no longer sends pain signals to the brain, providing relief.
What Conditions Can Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?
The following pain conditions can be treated with radiofrequency ablation:
Low-Back Pain
Low-back pain is a common condition that affects people. Research shows that approximately 80% of the global population will experience back pain in their life. This kind of pain can result from the sacroiliac joint, lumbar facet joints, and intervertebral disc. Luckily, radiofrequency nerve ablation functions as a phenomenal remedy for chronic back pain.
Neck Pain
Neck pain results from degenerative diseases, trauma, wrong posture, tumors, muscle pains, and bone or joint abnormalities. If the neck pain persists, it is advisable to contact a qualified physician for more diagnoses. In most scenarios, the doctor will recommend the patient to undergo cervical facet radiofrequency ablation.
Chronic Pain
Any pain that does not respond to painkillers or lasts for more than three months or more is chronic. Millions of people suffer chronic pain. This type of pain affects your sleep, emotions, physical and social wellbeing. In the case where the doctor is not able to diagnose the cause of the pain, the patient gets referred to RFA.
Arthritis
This pain is stressful and can be humiliating. Arthritis is a broad term covering many diseases that affect the joints of your knees, fingers, and even hips. The significant causes of arthritis are age, bacterial infections, injuries, and genes. Arthritis diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are associated with specific genes. Patients with arthritis can benefit from radiofrequency ablation.
Side Effects After Radiofrequency Ablation
After having RFA, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe pain at the site of injection
- Swelling
- Increased weakness
- Leg numbness as a result of the anesthesia administered during RFA.
- Mild back discomfort that occurs when the local anesthetic wears off. In the case of this condition, the physician recommends the use of usual pain medications.
The Pain Center Can Help
The Pain Center prioritizes ensuring that you feel better, faster. Don't let any pain control your life. Book an appointment with The Pain Center to relieve your back, neck, joint, and other pains.