Radiofrequency Ablation (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar spine)

For patients looking to free themselves of chronic pain, radiofrequency ablation stands as an effective solution. By interrupting pain pulses, the treatment offers a minimally-invasive way  to find  lasting relief.

Regardless of whether you are experiencing minor or severe pain, the University Pain and Spine Center team is committed to helping you find a customized path toward relief at our state-of-the-art facilities throughout New Jersey, including locations in Somerset, Ewing, Englewood Cliffs, and Bloomfield.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also called rhizotomy or “ablation”, is an innovative non-surgical treatment that blocks pain signals. The procedure applies a controlled amount of radiofrequency energy to heat the nerve that’s causing your pain. The heat creates a lesion which blocks pain signals and provides lasting pain relief. University Pain and Spine Center often combines RFA with other treatments like physical therapy. It usually provides rapid relief with little to no recovery time and can reduce your need for medication. Ablation can help you get back to your regular activities quickly and safely. It can also help you avoid surgery.

Types of Ablation for Pain Relief

  • Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation uses heat from radio waves to treat painful facet joints in your neck.
  • Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation is applied to relieve you from pain on your lower back.
  • Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation is for pain due to nerve damage or malfunction in your upper back.

Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation

Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation

How Is a Radiofrequency Ablation Performed?

  • Your provider numbs an area of skin and tissue.
  • With the help of a fluoroscope, they guide a needle through the skin and tissue to the painful area.
  • Then, they insert a thin electrode called a “cannula” through this needle. Tests are performed with the electrode to find the nerve or nerves that are causing pain.
  • In order to block pain, a radiofrequency current is sent through the electrode. This creates a small, precise burn on the painful nerve.
  • The burned spot stops pain signals from traveling through your nerve to your brain.
  • Your provider needs to treat more than one nerve to stop the pain signals. When the procedure is done, a small bandage is placed on your skin.
  • You’re watched in a recovery room for a brief time and when the staff checks that you are healing correctly, you can go home.
  • After the procedure you may feel sore, but you’ll gradually feel pain relief throughout the course of several weeks.

The treatment takes 15-45 minutes, depending on how many nerves your doctor treats during your appointment.

What Conditions Is Ablation Effective for?

The team at the University Pain and Spine Center uses RFA treatments to address a variety of painful conditions, including:

The team can use ablation almost anywhere in your body. They often use it to address neck pain, back and spine pain, and joint pain. In most cases, the team at the University Pain and Spine Center offers ablation treatments if a nerve block treatment has relieved your pain before.

What Should I Expect After Treatment?

  • RFA provides almost immediate pain relief. You might have some tenderness at the treatment site, but this should go away within 24-48 hours.
  • Your doctor might recommend that you have physical therapy to address any muscular imbalances or improve your strength and flexibility to reduce your risk of future pain. They might also suggest regenerative medicine treatments to help your body repair itself.
  • If you have chronic pain that interferes with your mobility or quality of life, call the University Pain and Spine Center, or make an appointment online, to learn about radiofrequency ablation and how it can relieve your pain.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information contained on this website does not constitute official medical advice, nor does it replace an actual medical diagnosis. Every patient is different. To contact the team at University Pain & Spine Center, you can call (732) 873-6868. Thank you!

FAQ

Is the procedure painful?

Because we use local anesthetics to numb the area, most patients feel only mild pressure or a “pinching” sensation during the needle placement.

While not permanent, relief usually lasts from 6 months to 2 years. If the nerve regrows and the pain returns, the procedure can safely be repeated.

You cannot drive yourself home after a radiofrequency ablation. Because we may use mild sedation to keep you comfortable, you must have a responsible adult drive you home after the procedure.

Not necessarily. If you are experiencing localized pain and conservative treatments have not worked, you can contact the University Pain & Spine Center office in New Jersey to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with reliable specialists.

Your Path to Relief in New Jersey at University Pain & Spine Center

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally-invasive and effective solution for patients dealing with debilitating pain. The procedure is proven to enhance the patient’s mobility and quality of life. The experienced team at University Pain & Spine Center is committed to delivering comprehensive care for your treatment and recovery. Contact us to determine if you are a suitable candidate for ablation today.

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