Radiofrequency Ablations

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce chronic pain by disrupting nerve signals that transmit pain messages to the brain. At Comprehensive Spine and Pain, our four double board-certified pain management doctors use advanced RFA techniques to treat a wide range of painful conditions affecting the spine, joints, and peripheral nerves. Performed in our state-of-the-art in-office procedure rooms, radiofrequency ablation provides patients with long-lasting relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life, all without the need for hospital-based care. Call us today at (405) 601-4227 to schedule your appointment.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation uses a specialized needle and radio wave energy to create a carefully controlled heat lesion on a targeted nerve. By disrupting the nerve’s ability to send pain signals, the procedure can provide relief that lasts much longer than steroid injections or medications. Unlike surgical approaches, RFA does not require large incisions or lengthy recovery times, making it an attractive option for patients who want effective pain relief without significant disruption to their lives.

Conditions Treated With Radiofrequency Ablation

RFA is particularly useful for conditions where chronic pain originates from irritated or arthritic joints or from nerves carrying pain signals. Some of the most common conditions treated at Comprehensive Spine and Pain include:

• Facet joint arthritis and syndrome – Pain in the neck or lower back caused by degeneration of the small joints in the spine.
• Sacroiliac joint pain – Pain in the lower back or buttocks where the spine meets the pelvis.
• Chronic low back or neck pain – Pain that has persisted for months and does not respond to conservative treatments.
• Knee pain and hip pain – Often due to osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints.
• Peripheral nerve pain – Including certain types of neuropathy or post-surgical nerve pain.
• Chronic headaches – When caused by irritated cervical nerves or facet joints.

By selectively targeting nerves that contribute to these pain conditions, radiofrequency ablation can offer long-lasting improvement without affecting muscle strength or overall nerve function.

How the Procedure Works

Diagnostic Phase

Before recommending RFA, our physicians perform diagnostic injections known as medial branch blocks or nerve blocks. If the patient experiences significant temporary relief from these injections, it confirms that the targeted nerves are the source of pain and that radiofrequency ablation is likely to be effective.

The Ablation Procedure

Radiofrequency ablation is performed in our in-office procedure rooms under local anesthesia and sometimes light sedation. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician inserts a thin needle near the targeted nerve. A small electrical current is passed through the needle to confirm proper placement by reproducing mild pain or muscle twitching. Once confirmed, radiofrequency energy is applied to create a small, precise lesion on the nerve.

Duration and Recovery

The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, and patients are observed briefly afterward before being discharged home on the same day. Most people return to light activities within 24–48 hours, although some may experience mild soreness for a few days.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation offers many advantages for patients with chronic pain:

• Long-lasting relief – Pain relief can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, much longer than injections alone.
• Minimally invasive – No incisions, stitches, or hospital stays are required.
• Reduced reliance on medications – Many patients can decrease or eliminate pain medications after successful RFA.
• Improved mobility and function – With pain reduced, patients can return to exercise, work, and daily activities more comfortably.
• Repeatable – If pain returns after the nerve regenerates, the procedure can be safely repeated.

Who Is a Candidate for RFA?

Ideal candidates for radiofrequency ablation are patients with chronic, localized pain who:

• Have confirmed pain relief from diagnostic nerve or medial branch blocks.
• Have not achieved lasting relief from conservative measures such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
• Do not have severe spinal instability, widespread nerve damage, or progressive neurological deficits requiring surgery.
• They are medically stable enough to tolerate a short outpatient procedure.

Risks and Side Effects

Radiofrequency ablation is considered a very safe procedure, especially when performed by highly trained, board-certified physicians. However, as with any procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with it. These may include:

• Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site.
• Mild numbness, tingling, or weakness for a few days.
• Rare risks of infection, bleeding, or nerve injury.

Serious complications are uncommon, particularly when performed in a controlled, sterile environment using advanced imaging guidance—as we do at Comprehensive Spine and Pain.

Integrating RFA Into a Comprehensive Pain Management Plan

At Comprehensive Spine and Pain, radiofrequency ablation is rarely a stand-alone solution. Instead, it is part of a broader treatment strategy that may include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
• Medication management to address residual symptoms or flare-ups.
• Injection therapies for diagnostic confirmation or to manage inflammation.
• Lifestyle modifications such as weight management, posture correction, and exercise programs.

This multi-disciplinary approach ensures patients not only experience pain relief but also regain function and reduce their risk of future problems.

Why Choose Comprehensive Spine and Pain for Radiofrequency Ablation?

Comprehensive Spine and Pain is one of the few practices in the region offering both medication management and interventional pain management under one roof, giving patients access to complete care in a single setting. With four double board-certified physicians, we bring extensive experience in advanced pain management techniques to every case. The in-office procedure rooms at Comprehensive Spine and Pain are designed to provide a comfortable atmosphere, flexibility, and cost savings compared to hospital-based care.

We also use state-of-the-art technology, including fluoroscopic imaging, to ensure maximum precision and safety during every procedure. Each treatment plan is carefully personalized, integrating radiofrequency ablation with other therapies for truly comprehensive care. Above all, Comprehensive Spine and Pain is committed to 100% patient satisfaction, prioritizing comfort, clear communication, and long-lasting results.

Could a Radiofrequency Ablation Help Your Condition? Contact Comprehensive Spine and Pain Today to Learn More

Radiofrequency ablation has transformed the way chronic pain is treated, offering long-term relief without the risks and downtime of major surgery. For patients with conditions such as facet joint arthritis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, chronic low back or neck pain, or osteoarthritis of the knee and hip, RFA can provide meaningful, lasting improvement in pain and function.

At Comprehensive Spine and Pain, we are dedicated to using advanced interventional treatments like radiofrequency ablation to help patients reclaim their lives from chronic pain. If you are struggling with persistent pain that has not responded to other treatments, please call us today at (405) 601-4227 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and determine if RFA is the right option for you.