Radiofrequency Ablation for Pain Management
May 11, 2016
Radiofrequency ablation is a method for reducing pain that many patients are unaware of. This article is all about radiofrequency ablation. We will discuss the procedure itself, and a few of the conditions commonly treated by radiofrequency ablation.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA for short) is a pain relief method in which heat is applied to nerve tissues via radio waves to disrupt pain signals. During the procedure, the patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the area in question. Then, using x-ray guided technology, your doctor will insert a needle into the pain area and navigate to the nerves in question. Once they arrive at the nerve tissue, they will send radio wave signals through the needle to heat up the nerve. You may experience some mild tingling during this process but generally the procedure is painless.
Here are some of the pain conditions and injuries that radiofrequency ablation can successfully treat:
RFA can significantly reduce pain in many patients – but not all people are good candidates for the procedure. If you have an infection or pre-existing bleeding issues, for example, you may not be a great candidate. A qualified pain doctor can tell you if you are a good candidate for RFA, and if not, recommend other options for treatment.
At Advanced Spine & Pain Clinics of MN, our pain physicians are highly skilled and trained in radiofrequency ablation. Contact us today to set up your appointment with one of our Minnesota pain management doctors and find out if radiofrequency ablation can help resolve your pain. Our physicians will do a full examination, determine a diagnosis, and walk you through your options for treatment. Call our office today to set up your appointment and get back to a pain free life.