Introduction
The minimally invasive procedure of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) applies heat energy to cut off pain signals between nerves which leads to lasting relief of chronic pain. At Regencare we provide specialized RFA services to help patients achieve mobility improvement while decreasing their need for pain medications.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) represents a non-invasive medical procedure which delivers precise heat energy to block pain-transmitting nerves. By stopping these transmission signals RFA creates long-term pain relief that does not result in tissue damage.
What does Radiofrequency Ablation accomplish in the treatment of pain?
– Pain Management Within Your Spine:
A specialized needle delivers radiofrequency waves to nerves causing pain (e.g., facet joints or medial branch nerves). The heat application results in nerve tissue lesions which stop pain signals from reaching the brain during a 6–24-month period.
Radiofrequency Ablation treats what specific medical conditions
RFA is effective for:
RFA delivers excellent outcomes for the treatment of knee arthritis pain by targeting the genicular nerves surrounding the knee joint.
– Chronic Back & Neck Pain: Addresses facet joint or spinal nerve irritation.
– Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Reduces inflammation in the SI joint.
– Shoulder & Hip Pain: Manages joint-related or nerve-triggered discomfort.
– Nerve-Related Pain: Occipital neuralgia and CRPS benefit from this treatment approach.
Does RFA provide superior outcomes in comparison to other existing pain management treatments?
– Non-Surgical: Avoids risks of invasive surgery.
– Long-Lasting Relief: The treatment delivers superior results compared to steroid injections which provide short-term benefits.
– Minimal Downtime: Patients can resume their daily routines in just a few days.
Prior to undergoing Radiofrequency Ablation what steps need to be taken?
Before the procedure starts there must be a Diagnostic Nerve Block to confirm pain origin and a Medical Evaluation to review past medical conditions and medications along with Pre-Procedure Instructions for fasting and attire requirements.
The total duration of the Radiofrequency Ablation treatment session is what?
The treatment procedure under local anesthesia lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
The Radiofrequency Ablation procedure includes which steps?
1. Positioning: You’ll lie comfortably on an exam table.
2. Guidance: Fluoroscopy or ultrasound pinpoints the target nerve.
3. Needle Insertion: A thin electrode needle is placed near the nerve.
4. Radiofrequency Waves: Heat is applied for 60–90 seconds per site.
What takes place following a Radiofrequency Ablation treatment?
– Immediate Recovery: Patients need to rest for 1–2 hours but they may experience some soreness at the procedure site.
– Activity Resumption: Light activities within 24 hours.
Pain relief assessment takes place during the follow-up visit which occurs two to three weeks after the treatment.
What benefits does Radiofrequency Ablation provide to patients?
The procedure operates without surgical needs and general anesthesia while maintaining safety for patients.
– Long-Term Relief: Up to 24 months of reduced pain.
– Quick Recovery: Patients can return to their normal activities and work within 1–2 days.
– Repeatable: The treatment holds the possibility to perform additional procedures when pain symptoms return.
What are the side effects and risks involved with Radiofrequency Ablation?
– Common: Temporary soreness, swelling, or bruising at the site.
– Rare: Infection, nerve damage, or skin numbness (resolve within weeks).
What makes a person eligible to receive Radiofrequency Ablation treatment?
Ideal candidates:
The patient must experience six months or longer of continuous joint or spine pain.
– Found temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks.
Patients who want surgery-free or medication-free treatment options would find RFA to be a suitable alternative.
When can patients expect results from Radiofrequency Ablation treatments?
– Initial Relief: Within 3–7 days as inflammation subsides.
– Peak Benefits: The maximum therapeutic outcomes occur 2–3 weeks following the procedure.
Is there a way to schedule an RFA consultation at Regencare?
To book your consultation with our RFA specialists use [Book Consultation Now] or WhatsApp to create an appointment.