Radiofrequency ablation offers extended relief for patients with confirmed facet joint pain or sacroiliac joint pain. By using heat to disrupt the nerves carrying pain signals, this procedure can provide relief lasting nine to eighteen months or longer.
Patients who have responded well to diagnostic medial branch blocks are typically excellent candidates. The procedure builds on the information gained from those blocks to deliver targeted, lasting treatment.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation uses a specialized needle to deliver controlled heat to specific nerves. This heat creates a small lesion that interrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals. The targeted nerves are the same ones tested during diagnostic blocks.
The procedure does not damage the spinal cord or major nerves. The treated nerves are small sensory branches that serve only to transmit pain from the joints. Over time, these nerves may regenerate, at which point the procedure can be repeated.
What Does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?
Radiofrequency ablation is most commonly used for facet joint pain in the neck or lower back. It is also effective for sacroiliac joint pain. Patients must first undergo diagnostic blocks confirming that these structures are the source of symptoms.
This procedure is appropriate for patients with chronic pain who have experienced significant but temporary relief from diagnostic injections. It provides a longer lasting solution without the need for ongoing injections.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
After confirming needle placement with fluoroscopy, Dr. Sperzel performs sensory and motor testing to ensure the needle is positioned correctly. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered through the needle, heating the nerve to a precise temperature.
This controlled heating disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals while preserving surrounding tissues. Multiple nerves may be treated during a single session to address all levels contributing to your pain.
What to Expect During the Procedure
You will lie face down on a procedure table. After numbing the treatment area, Dr. Sperzel uses fluoroscopy to position the radiofrequency needles at each target nerve. Testing confirms proper placement before treatment begins.
During the ablation, you may feel warmth or mild pressure. The sensation lasts only seconds at each site. The entire procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on how many nerves are treated. Sedation is available if preferred.
Recovery Timeline
Some patients experience temporary increased soreness for one to two weeks after the procedure as the treated area heals. This is normal and typically manageable with over the counter medications and ice.
Pain relief develops gradually over two to four weeks as the nerves stop transmitting signals. Most patients experience maximum benefit within one month. Relief typically lasts nine to eighteen months, and the procedure can be repeated when needed.
