Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Procedures in New York and Belleville
Chronic pain in the back, neck, or joints can affect every part of your life. When other treatments haven’t provided enough relief, Radiofrequency Ablation may be an option. This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves that send pain signals to the brain, offering long-term comfort and improved mobility. At The Family Pain and Wellness, we provide Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) procedures to help patients move toward a more active, pain-free life.
How Radiofrequency Ablation Works to Quiet Pain Signals
Radiofrequency Ablation is a procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to create a small lesion on a targeted nerve. The goal is to temporarily disrupt the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain.
This treatment blocks the pain signals even though the source of pain may still exist, so you don’t so you no longer feel the pain. Doctors often recommend it for pain linked to the facet joints in the spine, the sacroiliac joint, or other arthritic joints.
Our pain management physician performs the procedure under local anesthesia and uses X-ray guidance to place the needle accurately and safely.
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Types of RFA Procedures Available at Our Clinic
We offer the following Radiofrequency Ablation procedures at our clinic:
1. Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy
Pain in the lower back is a common complaint, often originating from the facet joints in the lumbar spine. Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy specifically targets the nerves that supply these joints.
If you experience pain that radiates from your lower back into your buttocks or upper thighs, and if you have found temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks, this procedure might be a good option for you.
By treating these nerves, we can help reduce pain and stiffness, allowing for better mobility and a reduction in the need for pain medication.
2. Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy
Pain in the middle portion of the back, known as the thoracic spine, can be particularly challenging. Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy focuses on the nerves connected to the facet joints in this area.
This type of pain can sometimes feel like a persistent ache or stiffness that makes it difficult to twist or bend. Our specialists uses advanced imaging techniques to accurately target the thoracic nerves, providing a path to relief for pain that has not responded to other treatments like physical therapy or injections.
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3. Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy
Irritated nerves in the cervical spine often cause chronic neck pain and headaches. Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation Neurotomy targets the facet joints in the neck to relieve this pain.
Patients who benefit from this treatment often report pain that travels from the neck up into the head or out to the shoulders.
By carefully applying radiofrequency energy to these specific nerves, we can help ease the discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis or whiplash injuries. This often leads to improved range of motion and quality of life.
4. Coolief® Cooled RF Therapy
For some patients, a more advanced approach can provide even better results. We’re proud to offer Coolief® Cooled Radiofrequency Therapy. Unlike traditional RFA, Coolief® uses water-cooled technology.
This allows the heat to spread over a broader, more uniform area without reaching temperatures that could harm surrounding tissue. It also creates a larger treatment zone. This approach is often more effective for treating pain in bigger joints, such as the knee, or for certain types of spinal pain.
Coolief® is known for providing longer-lasting relief, sometimes for up to two years.
What to Expect During Your RFA Procedure at Our Clinic
Your comfort and safety are our main priorities. On the day of your procedure, you will remain awake, but mild sedation and local anesthesia will ensure comfort. We will numb the area with a local anesthetic.
Using live X-ray guidance, our physician will insert a thin needle near the targeted nerve. A small electrical current may be used to confirm the perfect placement. Once confirmed, the radiofrequency energy is applied for a short period.
The entire process typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes, and you will be able to go home the same day with simple aftercare instructions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Pain Relief from RFA Last?
Relief from radiofrequency ablation usually lasts between 6 months and 12 months, and in some cases longer. Since nerves can regenerate, repeat procedures may be needed over time.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation Painful?
Patients may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but local anesthesia and sedation are often used to keep them comfortable. Mild soreness may occur afterward but usually resolves quickly.
What is the Difference Between Lumbar, Thoracic, and Cervical RFA?
These terms describe the area of the spine where the treatment is performed. Lumbar RFA targets lower back nerves, thoracic RFA addresses mid-back nerves, and cervical RFA treats neck pain.
How is Coolief® Different from Standard RFA?
Water-cooled technology in Coolief® expands the treatment area, making it effective for larger joints such as knees, hips, and shoulders. Doctors often use standard RFA for the spine.
Call Us to Book Your Consultation with Our Pain Management Expert!
If chronic pain in your neck, back, or joints has not improved with other treatments, RFA may be the right option for you.
At The Family Pain and Wellness, we offer Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) procedures in Belleville and New York, to help patients find long-lasting relief and regain mobility.