If you are researching pain management options in the Los Angeles area, you may want to consider radiofrequency ablation. This noninvasive treatment applies radio waves to damaged nerves, blocking them from sending pain signals to your brain. You may find relief with this treatment if you have unsuccessfully tried to soothe your aches with medication and physical therapy.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation, And How Does It Work?
Radiofrequency Ablation is also known as RFA, radiofrequency neurotomy, RFN, or lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy. During the procedure, a practitioner will place a needle into your affected nerve and attach an electrode. As radio waves flow through the needle and into your nerve, they heat the area, causing a lesion to form. This lesion will obstruct any pain signals from the nerve.
What Kinds Of Pain Does RFA Treat?
RFA has been used successfully for issues like these:
- Knee, Back, Or Neck Aches
- Pain Caused By Cancer
- Pain In Peripheral Nerves
- Spondylosis
- Sacroiliac Joint Pain
What Should You Expect During A Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment?
Your pain doctor will apply a local anesthetic to the area that will be treated and may also give you a low dose of sedative medication to keep you comfortable. Your doctor will use a fluoroscope x-ray to view and place the needle precisely where needed, which may cause you to feel pressure.
How Will You Feel After Your RFA Treatment?
Although you will probably be able to stand and walk right after the procedure, you will need to spend a day or two resting at home, avoiding driving and strenuous tasks. You may feel discomfort or muscle spasms for a few days (up to two weeks). Ice packs or over-the-counter medication will be helpful. Many patients return to work in two or three days.
What Are Some Of The Long-Term Results Of RFA?
Some people report immediate pain relief, while others find it takes up to ten days. Many patients find that this relief lasts for months or even a year.
What Are The Risks & Side Effects Of RFA?
Because radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment, its risks are low. In addition, complications and side effects such as bleeding, infections, and increased discomfort are rare, though you should always discuss any questions or concerns with your care provider.
Are You Searching For Relief In The Los Angeles Area?
Radiofrequency ablation is just one of the pain management treatments we offer at Advanced Pain Medical Group. Our eight Los Angeles area pain clinic locations are ready to help you discover relief and hope. Call us today to make an appointment.