Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure in which heat energy is used to treat pain. It can provide pain relief to all sorts of chronic pain patients, especially those with back and neck pain. Many pain management doctors recommend this option because it can give longer lasting effects than a steroid injection.
Before the procedure, patients will be positioned on their stomachs. After the back is cleaned and sterilized, an anesthesiologist will numb the area. It will not put patients completely asleep, but will numb the area enough so that they barely feel the procedure. To start, the physician will use a fluoroscope, or a real-time video X-ray in order to place thin needles near nerves around the spine. A long device called an electrode will go down into the needle that is then heated up so the nerve tissue can be destroyed.
Patients who have radiofrequency ablation with one of Tulsa Pain’s interventional pain management physicians can go home the same day. Many patients even report that they are well enough to return to work the next day. But even though the procedure is over, the process is not quite done. Nerves take a few days to completely die off, so patients may feel a little sore until about a week afterwards. Additionally, since the electrodes were heated, patients may feel sensitivity or a “sunburn” feeling on their back until they are fully healed. However, any discomfort should go away with the use of over-the-counter pain medication and by applying ice.
The results vary from patient to patient. In many of the cases we see at Tulsa Pain, patients report complete pain relief. Other times, patients still experience some pain, but instead of severe pain, it went down to mild or moderate pain as a result of radiofrequency ablation.
Radiofrequency ablation helps chronic pain patients feel relief, but it is not a permanent solution. Because nerve fibers can heal, patients may experience pain relief for 6-12 months, although it is different for everyone. If needed, our pain management experts can repeat the procedure.
Tulsa Pain is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
