Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that targets chronic neck, back, or joint pain by disrupting nerve signals. Dr. Dipan Patel, our double board-certified interventional pain physician, uses this precise technique to help reduce long-lasting discomfort and improve your mobility. It’s an effective option when other treatments haven’t provided lasting relief.
Improve Mobility by Treating Painful Nerves
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat energy to interrupt pain signals from specific nerve fibers. By applying radio waves through a specialized needle, the treatment safely disrupts nerve activity that causes chronic pain. This is commonly used for conditions like arthritis, spine-related pain, or joint pain that have not improved with conservative treatments. Because RFA targets the source of pain, it can provide longer-lasting relief and help you return to daily activities with greater comfort.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation:
- Provides long-lasting pain relief by targeting the source of nerve pain
- Minimally invasive procedure with no major incisions required
- Quick recovery, allowing you to return to daily activities sooner
- Reduces the need for long-term medications or repeated injections
- Effective for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments
What Does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?
Radiofrequency ablation is performed to treat chronic pain that stems from overactive or irritated nerves. It works by gently disrupting the nerve pathways responsible for sending persistent pain signals to your brain, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility. This treatment is often recommended when other options, such as medications, have not provided lasting relief.
Common symptoms and conditions it may help with include:
- Chronic neck or lower back pain
- Arthritis-related joint pain (such as in the knee or hip)
- Pain from spinal facet joints or sacroiliac joints
- Pain radiating from nerve irritation after injury or surgery
- Limited mobility due to ongoing nerve-related pain
How Soon Will I Notice the Results?
Pain relief is not always immediate. Some patients notice improvement within a few days, while for others it may take two to three weeks as the treated nerve fibers fully stop transmitting pain. Temporary soreness is normal during the healing period, but most patients experience progressive improvement in mobility and daily function.
What Happens During Radiofrequency Ablation?
During radiofrequency ablation, you’ll lie on a treatment table while the skin over the painful area is cleaned and numbed. Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound, Dr. Patel guides a specialized needle to the small nerve that is transmitting pain signals. A microelectrode is then passed through the needle, and when indicated a gentle test stimulation is performed. This confirms the correct nerve by reproducing your usual pain or muscle response before treatment begins.
Once placement is verified, radiofrequency energy is delivered through the electrode, producing controlled heat (around 80°C) that disrupts the nerve’s ability to carry pain signals. This creates a small, localized lesion while preserving nearby healthy tissue. The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you’ll remain awake but comfortable. Because the nerve fibers regenerate slowly, relief often lasts 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on your condition.
How Long Does RFA Pain Relief Last?
Relief from radiofrequency ablation typically lasts between 6 and 12 months, though some patients experience benefits for up to 18 months. This duration depends on how quickly the treated nerves regenerate. Because the nerve regrows slowly, pain often returns gradually rather than suddenly. If needed, the procedure can be safely repeated.
Can Radiofrequency Ablation Replace Surgery?
For many people, RFA can significantly reduce pain and delay or avoid the need for surgery, especially in cases of arthritis-related joint or spinal pain.
However, it does not correct structural problems such as severe deformity or instability. Dr. Patel will help determine whether RFA is appropriate for your specific condition and long-term goals.
Why Choose Dr. Patel for Radiofrequency Ablation?
Dr. Dipan Patel is a double board-certified interventional pain physician with advanced fellowship training from NYU Langone. He specializes in minimally invasive treatments that target chronic pain at its source, helping patients restore mobility and improve quality of life without surgery. With expertise in advanced techniques like radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Patel delivers precise care tailored to your needs. If you’re struggling with persistent pain, schedule your consultation for radiofrequency ablation in Morris County, NJ, today.
