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Radiofrequency ablation, commonly referred to as RFA, is an effective long-term treatment for mechanical neck and low back pain due to joint inflammation. The goal of radiofrequency ablation is to provide long term relief of joint mediated pain than regular steroid injections can provide. The treatment is indicated once the joints have been precisely identified as a primary pain generator and steroid injections are only effective for short periods of time. In the spine, radiofrequency ablation is used for facet joint and sacroiliac joint pain.
The radiofrequency ablation procedure is an outpatient procedure which traditionally takes about 30 minutes to complete.
There are two small facet joints in the posterior column of each vertebral segment that provide the spine with both stability and flexibility. Facet syndrome occurs when one or more of these joints become inflamed or irritated. Patients often report increased back pain with extension or prolonged periods of inactivity like sitting or standing too long. Changing positions often improves the pain.
The sacroiliac joint is a mobile strong weight bearing joint in the pelvis that connects the sacrum and pelvis. There are two joints, one on each side of the sacrum, reinforced by strong surrounding ligaments. Pain can be from inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, called sacroiliitis.
This is commonly felt as pain on one side of the lower back to the right or left of midline where the joint is located. When SI joint dysfunction is severe, pain can refer to the hip, groin, buttocks, and even down the back of the thigh. Pain may be worse with movements that stress that joint, such as standing up from a seated position, walking up an incline, elliptical exercise, prolonged sitting or walking, or twisting when rolling in bed at night.
A radiofrequency procedure interrupts the sensory nerve supply to the involved joint through the use of thermal denervation. Under local anesthesia with light intravenous sedation, our Pain Management Specialists at Zion Medical will use fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance to place special radiofrequency needles in the proximity of the nerves that supply the inflamed joint. After testing to ensure that the needle is in the correct position, a heat lesion is generated to deaden the nerve.
The radiofrequency ablation procedure is an outpatient procedure which traditionally takes about 30 minutes to complete. Symptom relief can range from six months to a year but can last longer as well. It can be repeated in six months to a year, if needed. Radiofrequency has been performed safely for many years with excellent outcomes. You may have a sore back or neck for one to two days immediately afterwards. It is recommended that you take it easy on the day of procedure, but return to usual activities the following day. The benefit from this procedure will typically occur within two weeks.
Neurosurgery is a surgical specialty that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of conditions, such as auto accident fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, scoliosis, and osteoporosis.
Interventional pain management is a medical specialty that uses minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat chronic pain. Procedures include epidurals, medial branch blocks, and radio frequency ablation.
You may schedule an appointment by phone, by calling our Daytona office at (386) 317-5149, or our Palm Coast office at (888) 997-3952.
Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, a list of any medications you are currently taking, any relevant medical records, and any questions you may have for your doctor.
During your first visit, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs. Your doctor will discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with you and answer any questions you may have.
The length of an appointment varies depending on the nature of the visit. A routine follow-up appointment may only last 15-20 minutes, while a consultation or evaluation may take an hour or more.
Interventional pain management specialists treat a variety of pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain, nerve pain, and chronic headaches.
It depends on your insurance provider and specific policy. Some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician, while others allow patients to self-refer. Please check with your insurance provider for details.
