What Is Radiofrequency Ablation and Is It Right for You?
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation, sometimes called RFA, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to interrupt the pain signals traveling along specific nerves. By targeting the nerve responsible for transmitting your pain, we can reduce or eliminate that pain for an extended period of time.
It sounds more intimidating than it is. The procedure is performed in our clinic, takes less than an hour in most cases, and does not require general anesthesia or a hospital stay.
Who Is It For?
RFA is typically recommended for patients who have chronic pain in the facet joints of the spine, the sacroiliac joint, or the knee, and who have already experienced meaningful relief from diagnostic nerve blocks. That prior relief is important because it tells us we have identified the right nerve.
If you have tried physical therapy, medication, and injections without lasting results, radiofrequency ablation may be the next step worth discussing with Dr. Mulkey.
What Can You Expect?
Before the procedure, Dr. Mulkey will review your history and confirm you are a good candidate. On the day of the procedure you will be made comfortable, the area will be numbed, and a small needle will be guided to the target nerve using imaging. A gentle heat is then applied to disrupt the nerve's ability to send pain signals.
Most patients go home the same day. Relief typically develops gradually over two to four weeks as the nerve fully responds to treatment. For many patients the results last several months or longer.
A Note From Our Practice
We know that deciding to pursue an interventional procedure can feel like a big step. At Gardendale Pain and Wellness we never recommend a procedure unless we genuinely believe it is the right option for you. Dr. Mulkey will walk you through everything, answer every question, and make sure you feel confident before moving forward.
You were not made to live in pain. If RFA might be part of your path to relief, we would love to talk with you.
Call us at (205) 608-8199 or book a consultation online.
