Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation, also called RFA, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat to interrupt pain signals from targeted nerves.

Common conditions treated

• Facet joint arthritis
• Chronic neck pain
• Chronic low back pain
• Pain that improves after diagnostic medial branch blocks

Potential benefits

• Longer-lasting pain relief for selected patients
• Improved function and activity tolerance
• Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
• May reduce reliance on repeated steroid injections

RFA is typically considered after diagnostic blocks suggest that the facet joints are a major source of pain.