Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat to disrupt pain signals from certain nerves and help relieve ongoing pain.
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Nonsurgical Spine Care & Pain Management
We have decades of experience caring for patients with back and spine conditions, pioneering minimally invasive treatments and leading research for new treatments to improve patient outcomes.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment that uses controlled heat from a special needle to interrupt pain signals carried by small nerves. It is often used when pain comes from joints in the spine or other specific structures and has not improved enough with other care.
For some people, radiofrequency ablation may help reduce longer-lasting pain in areas such as the neck, low back or sacroiliac joint. It is commonly considered after an evaluation and, in many cases, after diagnostic injections suggest that the treated nerve is a likely source of pain.
Why Choose Baptist Health?
At Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, patients benefit from coordinated care focused on finding the source of pain and matching treatment to their needs. Baptist Health brings together physicians across pain management, neurology and spine care to support a thoughtful treatment plan.
When radiofrequency ablation is being considered, the goal is to confirm the pain generator, review nonsurgical options and explain each step clearly. That may include related care for sciatica, spinal stenosis or other spine conditions when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Radiofrequency ablation is used to treat certain types of pain caused by nerves that carry pain signals from joints or nearby structures. It is often used for ongoing neck or back pain, and may also be considered for pain involving the sacroiliac joint or similar areas.
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No. Radiofrequency ablation is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure, not open surgery. It is usually performed through a needle rather than a large incision, and many patients go home the same day, depending on the area treated and the care plan.
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A physician looks at your symptoms, physical exam, imaging and response to earlier treatment. In many cases, diagnostic injections are used first to see whether the targeted nerve is likely causing the pain. That information can help guide whether ablation may be reasonable.
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Not usually. Radiofrequency ablation is designed to interrupt pain signals for a period of time, but nerves can recover over time. Some people have meaningful relief for months, while others may have less benefit. Results vary based on the cause of pain and the area treated.
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Most people feel some pressure or brief discomfort during parts of the procedure, but the area is numbed first. Mild soreness afterward is also common. Your physician will explain what sensations are expected and what kinds of symptoms should prompt a follow-up call.
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Commonly discussed risks include temporary soreness, bruising, numbness, bleeding, infection or incomplete pain relief. The exact risk profile depends on the treatment site and your health history. Your physician will review the benefits and risks with you before the procedure.
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Call your care team if you have worsening pain, fever, increasing redness, drainage, weakness or other concerning symptoms after treatment. You should also follow the discharge instructions you receive, especially if you have questions about medicines, activity or return to work.
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Our researchers play a vital role in helping us better understand brain and spine disease. They participate in a wide variety of clinical trials dedicated to improving treatments that will ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. Learn more about their work and what it means to be involved in a clinical trial.
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