Radiofrequency Ablation for Cervical and Lumbar Pain

Facet joints are small joints that surround adjacent vertebral levels within the spine. They are connected to nerve branches that carry signals to the brain, and any pain in the area can cause severe pain throughout the body. Sacroiliac joints are located in the lowest part of the spine in the pelvis and similarly connect to several nerve branches. Radiofrequency ablation is often performed when pain in these areas is chronic and has not improved via other remedies. It is also a viable remedy for neck pain resulting from whiplash.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The procedure is non-surgical and non-intrusive without the need for general anesthesia. The patient will typically be asked to lie on their stomach or side and may be sedated to relax. After numbing the target area, the doctor inserts a special radiofrequency needle with the help of an x-ray for guidance. A radiofrequency generator creates radio waves to confirm the correct nerve and then begins treatment. The procedure may take one to two hours depending on the targeted area and number of treatments. Patients can leave after a short period of monitoring and rest.

Side Effects of Radiofrequency Ablation

While a safe procedure, there are some minor temporary side effects:

• Numbness
• Nausea
• Discomfort at the target site

Duration of Relief

While radiofrequency ablation can be used for treating cervical and lumbar pain, it is not a permanent fix. The duration of relief has varied from anywhere between a few weeks to several months among patients. It is not uncommon for patients to also seek other treatment methods alongside radiofrequency ablation, such as physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and pharmaceuticals.