Treatments

overview

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), also known as Rhizotomy, is a procedure used to reduce chronic pain. RFA treatments uses heat to disrupt a nerves ability to transmit pain signals. It is highly effective for many patients, offering substantial pain relief and improving the ability to perform daily activities with less discomfort. RFA is often recommended for patients who have not responded well to conventional pain management strategies like physical therapy, medications, or corticosteroid injections.

Patients may undergo a preliminary evaluation that includes diagnostic blocks to confirm that the targeted nerves are indeed responsible for the pain. The RFA procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia which numbs the treatment area and with fluoroscopy (a type of live X-ray), the physician guides a needle to the precise area where the nerves are located.

Where on the Body is Radiofrequency Ablation Done ?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can be performed on various parts of the body where chronic pain is mediated by specific nerves. The procedure is typically used to target nerves that carry pain signals from the affected joints or spine. Here are some of the most common areas and types of RFA

• Spine: This is one of the most common areas for RFA, particularly to treat chronic lower back and neck pain due to conditions like arthritis of the spinal joints (facet joints) or spinal nerve root pain.
• Knee: RFA can be used to treat chronic knee pain, often due to osteoarthritis, by targeting nerves that transmit pain from the knee joint.
• Peripheral Nerves: It can be used on various peripheral nerve conditions where nerve pathways can be targeted to reduce pain.
• Base of Skull: RFA for Peripheral Nerves like Occipital Neuralgia, RFA is used on the occipital nerves at the base of the skull.

What are the Indications for Radiofrequency Ablation?

RFA is used to treat various types of chronic pain, including:

• Chronic Lower Back Pain: Often due to degenerative disc disease or facet joint osteoarthritis.
• Neck Pain: Especially when associated with arthritis of the cervical facet joints.
• Joint Pain: In cases of chronic knee or hip pain due to osteoarthritis.
• Peripheral Nerve Pain: Such as occipital neuralgia.
• Pain after Spine Surgery: Sometimes known as post-laminectomy syndrome.

What are the Benefits of for Radiofrequency Ablation?

• Long-Term Pain Relief: RFA can provide lasting pain relief ranging from 6 to 24 months, and sometimes even longer, depending on the patient.
• Minimally Invasive: The procedure is less invasive than surgery, with fewer complications and a shorter recovery time.
• Immediate Return to Activities: Most patients can quickly resume normal activities.

How Effective are for Radiofrequency Ablation?

RFA is considered a safe and effective treatment for various types of chronic pain, particularly when other treatments have failed. It offers a non-surgical approach to pain management that can significantly improve quality of life for many patients. However, as with any medical procedure, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to understand all potential risks and benefits based on your specific medical condition.

Key Considerations Include:

• Temporary Numbness: The treated area may feel numb for a short while after the procedure.
• Infection: As with any procedure that breaks the skin, there is a low risk of infection
• Neuritis: The nerves may become inflamed post-procedure that could lead to increased pain that is usually temporary
• Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain that radiates from the neck to the arms and hands.
• Lumbar Radiculopathy: Pain that spreads from the lower back to the legs and feet, commonly

How does for Radiofrequency Ablation work with other Treatments?

Consulting Dr. Justin Thompson at Foundation Pain & Spine provides several benefits, including:

• Expertise: Specialized knowledge in diagnosing and treating pain with the most advanced techniques.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: Customized approaches to pain management that address the unique needs of each patient.
• Access to Advanced Treatments: Including the latest in pain block technology and other cutting-edge interventions
• Holistic Care: Focus on treating the whole patient, not just the symptoms, including the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of pain.
• Improved Quality of Life: The ultimate goal is to reduce pain, improve functionality, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions.

Working with Dr. Justin Thompson at Foundation Pain & Spine ensures access to a comprehensive range of treatments and a personalized care plan designed to effectively manage pain and support patients in achieving their wellness goals. By leveraging the full spectrum of pain management techniques, including advanced pain blocks and multimodal therapies, patients can find significant relief and a path forward beyond their pain.