Long-Lasting Relief Through Precision Nerve Treatment
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is an advanced interventional pain procedure designed to provide extended relief for chronic neck and back pain. At Premier Pain Management Arizona, RFA is used to treat pain that originates from specific nerves, particularly when conservative treatments and temporary injections have not delivered lasting improvement.
Radiofrequency Ablation Phoenix, AZ
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat energy to interrupt pain signals traveling through targeted nerves. Unlike a standard nerve block, which temporarily numbs the nerve, RFA creates a small, precise lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain for an extended period of time.
The procedure is performed using fluoroscopic (live X-ray) guidance to ensure accurate placement of the radiofrequency probe. Before treatment, diagnostic testing confirms the exact nerve responsible for the pain. This careful confirmation improves the likelihood of long-term success.
RFA is most commonly used to treat:
- Facet joint pain in the neck and lower back
- Chronic lumbar spine pain
- Cervical spine pain
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint–related pain
- Certain peripheral nerve pain conditions
Because the targeted sensory nerves eventually regenerate, relief typically lasts several months and may extend up to a year or longer in some patients.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Complement Interventional Care?
Radiofrequency ablation is often the next step after a diagnostic nerve block confirms the source of pain. It plays an important role in a structured pain management plan by:
- Reducing inflammation associated with chronic joint irritation
- Supporting healing by decreasing persistent pain signals
- Improving outcomes by enabling greater participation in rehabilitation
By quieting the nerve pathway responsible for chronic pain, RFA can create a longer window of relief. This period allows patients to strengthen supporting muscles, improve mobility, and restore daily function without the constant barrier of pain.
Rather than repeatedly relying on short-term injections, RFA offers a more durable solution for properly selected candidates.
Who May Benefit from This Procedure?
Radiofrequency ablation may be appropriate for patients who:
- Have chronic neck or low back pain lasting several months or longer
- Experienced significant relief from a prior diagnostic nerve block
- Have facet joint–related pain confirmed through evaluation
- Want longer-lasting relief compared to temporary injections
- Seek to reduce dependence on pain medications
RFA is typically not recommended for acute injuries or conditions without a clearly identified nerve source. A thorough diagnostic process is essential before considering this procedure.
Our Approach
At Premier Pain Management Arizona, radiofrequency ablation is part of a carefully structured treatment pathway.
Before recommending RFA, our team conducts:
- Comprehensive clinical evaluation
- Diagnostic nerve block testing
- Imaging review when indicated
- Functional assessment of spinal and joint mechanics
If RFA is performed, it is often combined with:
- Targeted physical rehabilitation
- Postural and strengthening programs
- Ongoing monitoring to assess long-term response
This coordinated approach ensures that the underlying drivers of pain are addressed alongside the nerve pathway responsible for chronic symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does relief from radiofrequency ablation last?
Most patients experience relief for 6 to 12 months. Some may benefit for longer, depending on how quickly the nerve regenerates.
What is a Cervical RFA?
RFA uses radiofrequency energy to interrupt nerve function. When this is performed on a cervical medial branch nerve, the nerve can no longer send pain signals to the injured facet joint.
What to Expect During RFA Treatment
A local anesthetic will be used to numb your skin. All injections at Premier Pain Management are performed under guidance of x-ray or fluoroscopy to ensure safety and efficiency of the procedures. When the RFA is first placed, muscle twitching may provoke some of your pain. Once the needle is properly placed, the nerve will be numbed. Radiofrequency energy will then be used to diffuse the pain signal of the branch. This is often repeated at more than one level of the spine.
How Long Pain Relief from RFA Lasts
Pain relief lasts anywhere from 6 to 24 months. Nerves regenerate after an RFA, but how long this takes varies. Your pain may or may not return when the nerves regenerate. If it does, another RFA can be done.
If you are searching for pain relief, please contact a Premier Pain Management and let us help you.
Is radiofrequency ablation painful?
The procedure is generally well tolerated. The treatment area is numbed before the probe is placed. Mild soreness afterward is common but temporary.
How soon will I notice improvement?
Some patients notice improvement within one to two weeks, while others may take up to four weeks to experience full relief.
Schedule a Radiofrequency Ablation Consultation in Phoenix, AZ
Contact Premier Pain Management Arizona in Phoenix (Maryvale), Mesa, or Queen Creek to schedule a consultation and determine whether RFA is appropriate for your pain management plan.