Radiofrequency Ablation Specialists

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation involves the use of an electrical current to produce a specific frequency of radio waves. When the radio waves reach a certain frequency, they heat up or ablate nerve tissues that have been damaged or injured. Small areas of nerve tissues are treated each time in an attempt to reduce and alleviate chronic pain. When RF ablation is used, the number of pain signals sent from the area is dramatically decreased, effectively reducing pain and allowing the person to regain some portion of their normal life.

What Does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?

Radiofrequency ablation and neurotomy are used to treat many conditions that involve constant, chronic pain. This can include, but is not limited to:

• Conditions that affect the cervical and lumbar sections of the spinal column
• Whiplash
• Spinal arthritis
• Peripheral nerve entrapment
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Chronic pain that is often a side effect of various types of spinal surgeries.

A diagnostic nerve block may be used to help determine whether or not radiofrequency ablation will be effective on a specific type of injury. Make an appointment with Dr. Mahrou or Dr. Rafizad at Pain Care Providers to find out if radiofrequency ablation is the best treatment option for you.

Does Radiofrequency Ablation Have Side Effects?

Because radiofrequency ablation produces heat, the patient may feel a slight burning sensation. The feeling has been compared to that of a sunburn. This type of side effect can last anywhere from one to two weeks. Its severity will be determined based on the area that was treated by the procedure. The area may also be hypersensitive to touch for several days. Numbness in the treated area may also be present. The risk of infection is extremely low. If you are nervous about the side effects of radiofrequency ablation, please contact our office. We would be happy to discuss the procedure with you.