As you become older, your joints degrade, your cartilage thins and the joint’s lubricating fluids decrease. As a result, arthritis — pain and swelling in your joints — may develop. In addition, arthritis in your vertebrae can pinch or squeeze spinal nerves.
At first, pills and lotions may soothe the discomfort. However, those remedies may cease to be effective as the condition worsens. If this has happened to you, radiofrequency ablation may help.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (also known as rhizotomy) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that reduces pain. It is a proven safe and effective method of treating several types of pain, including arthritis joint pain, and is generally well-tolerated with very few side effects.
The targetable regions for pain signal disruption include the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions. Thus, radiofrequency ablation can also be used for cancer pain, chronic lower back and neck pain, damage caused by whiplash and facet syndrome.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
Radiofrequency ablation works by passing a current through a needle. During the procedure, an electrical current generated by a radio wave heats a little patch of nerve tissue, reducing the number of pain signals delivered through that location. A radiofrequency ablation session lasts approximately one hour.
First, you will be given a local anesthetic and a mild sedative so you are still awake for the treatment but will not experience discomfort. Then, your doctor will use an X-ray device to guide the needle probe to the problem area. Once in position, the probe will generate an electric current that sends radio waves into your afflicted nerve tissue. You will experience a mild sensation and warmth.
Before and After Radiofrequency Ablation
Your doctor may recommend that you fast before your procedure. Some bruising, swelling and soreness afterward is normal. These side effects are temporary.
You will not be able to drive for a day after your operation due to the sedative and local anesthetic, so bring someone with you that can drive you home. You should also refrain from strenuous activities for 24 hours and baths for 48 hours (you may shower). However, you may resume your regular diet.
Radiofrequency ablation results vary depending on the pain source. Some people report pain relief lasting years, although the average is six to twelve months. You can repeat the treatment if the pain returns.
Schedule Your Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment Today
Trinity Surgery Center in California is grateful for the opportunity to help you heal. You will love our modern facility. Here we perform radiofrequency ablation procedures on you as an outpatient so you do not have to spend the night in a hospital.
Arthritis can lead to significant pain and other severe conditions over time. Radiofrequency ablation has shown the most potential of any arthritis therapy method. Contact our clinic today to learn more.
Posted on Behalf of Trinity Surgery Center