What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure that is used to help reduce pain. RFA uses a specialized machine that generates a radiofrequency current to heat up a small area of nerve tissues in order to decrease pain signals from a specific area that are then sent to the brain.
Which conditions are treated with Radiofrequency Ablation?
The most common use of radiofrequency ablation is for the treatment of:
- Chronic low-back pain
- Neck pain
- Pain related to the degeneration of joints from arthritis
How long does pain relief from Radiofrequency Ablation last?
The relief of pain varies greatly not only from person to person but also depending on the cause and location of the pain. The majority of people who have continuous RFA treatment experience a greater than 50 percent pain reduction. RFA has been shown to provide relief from pain on average for 6-12 months and in some cases, relief can last for years. The procedure can be repeated. However, patients may experience diminishing results with repeated treatments.
Who is a good candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation?
You may be a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation if you suffer from:
- Spinal pain due to enlarged or arthritic joints
- Shooting sharp head pain that begins near your ear and radiates towards the middle of your face
- Chronic low back pain.
For more information concerning Radiofrequency Ablation, visit the A-Z Library.
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