Radiofrequency Ablation

This procedure is performed to remove pain caused by facet joints in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine. These small joints are what allow the spine to flex and extend. They can become inflamed or become arthritic, producing pain with activity.

Radiofrequency ablation is a painless procedure and allows the physician to burn the nerves causing a painful signal from the damaged facets. If you experience significant pain relief and functional improvement with the diagnostic Medial Branch Block, you are a candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to provide longer lasting pain relief. 

The RFA procedure is performed under fluoroscopic (X-Ray) guidance to make sure the needles are in the proper location. We additionally use sensory testing to pinpoint the exact location of the targeted medial branch nerve and motor testing to make sure there won’t be any weakness or numbness after the procedure.