Nerve pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to enjoy daily activities and diminishing your quality of life. When traditional treatments like medications or physical therapy fail to provide relief, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may offer a solution. At Trinity Surgical Center in San Jose, CA, we specialize in advanced pain management techniques, including RFA, to help patients find lasting relief.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation, also referred to as a rhizotomy, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to disrupt nerve signals responsible for chronic pain. By targeting specific nerves, RFA can effectively “turn off” the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
The procedure involves the use of a specialized needle, guided by imaging technology, to deliver targeted heat to the affected nerve. This precision minimizes damage to surrounding tissues and provides long-lasting relief.
When Is Radiofrequency Ablation Recommended?
RFA is typically recommended for patients who have chronic nerve pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments. Common conditions treated with RFA include:
- Chronic Back and Neck Pain: RFA is often used to relieve pain caused by arthritis in the facet joints, which connect the vertebrae in the spine. Studies show that RFA can reduce pain by up to 70% in patients with facet joint arthritis, providing relief that lasts six months to a year or more.
- Sciatica: Nerve pain radiating down the legs due to a compressed sciatic nerve can be alleviated with RFA, especially when physical therapy and medications haven’t worked.
- Hip Pain: For those with chronic hip pain due to arthritis or post-surgical issues, RFA can provide targeted relief without the need for additional surgery.
- Other Pain Areas: RFA can also be used for knee, shoulder, wrist, or other joint pain or cancer-related pain resulting from nerve damage.
What Are the Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation?
RFA offers several advantages over traditional pain management options:
- Minimally Invasive: No large incisions or prolonged recovery time.
- Quick Procedure: Typically completed in under an hour.
- Long-Lasting Relief: Pain relief can last from six months to two years, depending on the condition.
- Reduced Need for Medication: By directly targeting the source of pain, RFA minimizes dependence on painkillers, which can have side effects.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at Trinity Surgical Center. Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, ensuring comfort during the procedure. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward and can resume normal activities within a day or two.
Why Choose Trinity Surgical Center in San Jose, CA?
At Trinity Surgical Center, we combine state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care to provide effective pain management solutions. Our experienced team will carefully evaluate your condition to determine if radiofrequency ablation is the right treatment for you.
If you’re struggling with chronic nerve pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, radiofrequency ablation may be the answer. Contact Trinity Surgical Center in San Jose, CA, to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting pain relief. Let us help you get back to living your life without pain.