Radiofrequency Ablations

Long-Lasting Relief: How Radiofrequency Ablation Helps Manage Chronic Spine Pain

Chronic pain can be exhausting—especially when it lingers despite medications, physical therapy, or injections. At Pain Management Solutions, part of Columbus Regional Healthcare System, one of our most effective tools for lasting relief is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves responsible for sending pain signals—offering months of relief without surgery or heavy medications.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency Ablation uses heat generated by radio waves to disable small sensory nerves that transmit pain from inflamed or arthritic joints in the spine—most commonly from the facet joints or sacroiliac (SI) joints.

By interrupting these nerve signals, RFA can significantly reduce or even eliminate chronic neck, mid-back, or lower back pain.

How It Works

RFA is typically recommended for patients who have already undergone diagnostic nerve blocks, such as medial branch blocks, and experienced temporary pain relief. This step confirms the source of pain and helps ensure that RFA will be effective.

During the procedure:

1. A local anesthetic numbs the treatment area.
2. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a special needle is placed near the targeted nerve.
3. A small probe delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to heat the nerve and disrupt its ability to send pain signals.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

• Long-lasting pain relief (typically 6 to 12 months, sometimes longer)
• Reduced need for medications
• Improved mobility and function
• Minimal downtime and low risk of complications

Many patients are able to return to normal activities within 24–72 hours.

Conditions Treated with RFA

Radiofrequency Ablation is most commonly used to treat:

• Facet joint pain (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar)
• Sacroiliac joint pain
• Chronic neck or back pain from arthritis or injury
• Pain after whiplash or spinal degeneration

Is RFA Right for You?

If you’ve tried conservative treatments and short-term injections without lasting results, RFA may be a game-changing option. At Pain Management Solutions, Dr. Francis Pecoraro takes a precision-based approach to identify pain generators and deliver targeted therapies designed for long-term improvement.