Radiofrequency Nerve Ablation

Unlike treatments that simply mask discomfort, RFA works by precisely disabling the sensory nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. While it does not reverse the underlying arthritic changes, it can provide long-lasting relief—often for many months and, in some cases, over a year—allowing patients to move with greater comfort and confidence.

Who May Benefit From Radiofrequency Ablation

RFA may be recommended for patients experiencing:

• Chronic low back pain
• Mid-back or cervical (neck) pain
• Facet joint arthritis
• Sacroiliac joint pain
• Pain worsened by bending, twisting, or prolonged standing
• Significant but temporary relief from diagnostic nerve block injections

How Radiofrequency Ablation Works

RFA uses controlled radiofrequency energy to create a small, targeted heat lesion on specific sensory nerves. This lesion disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals, significantly reducing the discomfort felt in the corresponding area of the spine or joint.

Pain relief commonly lasts between 8 – 10 months. If pain eventually returns, the procedure can often be safely repeated.

Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Used for Spine & Joint Pain

Medial Branch Radiofrequency Ablation

Targets the small sensory nerves that transmit pain from the facet joints of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.

Procedure Steps

Radiofrequency ablation at Arkansas Spine and Pain is performed in a controlled clinical setting using strict sterile technique and fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance for precision.

1. Preparation

• Mild IV sedation is provided to help you relax
• The treatment area is thoroughly cleansed with antiseptic solution

2. Needle Placement

• Using fluoroscopy, a specialized radiofrequency needle is guided precisely to the targeted sensory nerve
• A small amount of local anesthetic is injected to numb the nerve before treatment

3. Radiofrequency Lesioning

• Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle, generating controlled heat
• This creates a precise lesion on the nerve, stopping pain signal transmission
• Multiple nerves may be treated in one session based on your pain pattern

4. Completion

• The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied
• Most patients are able to stand and walk shortly after
• You return home the same day

Recovery & What to Expect

• The procedure typically lasts 30–90 minutes
• No overnight hospital stay is required
• Driving and strenuous activity should be avoided for 24–48 hours
• Mild soreness at the treatment site is common for several days
• Some patients experience temporary muscle spasms or skin sensitivity as the treated nerves deactivate—this usually resolves within 1–2 weeks
• Pain relief begins once the nerve fully stops transmitting signals

Possible Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and temporary and may include:

• Local soreness or tenderness
• Skin sensitivity or superficial burning sensation
• Temporary numbness in the treated area
• Small, localized areas of hypersensitivity

Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by trained specialists under proper imaging guidance.