Radiofrequency Ablation

RFA – Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that involves heating a painful nerve in the spine, hips, knees, or elsewhere in the body to prevent it from sending pain signals to the brain. This procedure is generally recommended for cases where joint pain has not responded to conservative treatments. For many patients, radiofrequency ablation can provide relief and improve their quality of life. 

Radiofrequency ablation is designed to relieve pain caused by irritation of the nerves in joints throughout the body. This procedure can be used to treat pain related to joint inflammation in the knees, hips, neck, and back. 

The medical professionals at BEST Health System are dedicated to helping patients find the most effective, least invasive treatment. If you are experiencing joint inflammation-related pain, reach out to us and get started on your journey to recovery. 

When is radiofrequency ablation an option?

Radiofrequency is a great treatment option for patients experiencing pain related to joint inflammation. Some of the conditions that may benefit from radiofrequency ablation are:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Thinning disc
  • Neck and back pain
  • Arthritis
  • Occipital neuralgia

If you are unsure if you could benefit from radiofrequency ablation, contact BEST Health System and allow our medical professionals to help you find the most effective treatment plan. 

Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure and Recovery

The first step of radiofrequency ablation is to perform a nerve block injection to precisely determine the location of the nerve that is causing the painful symptoms. With the help of an X-ray device, a surgeon will inject a temporary numbing agent into the selected area. If the patient feels relief after this procedure, they are likely a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation. 

The radiofrequency ablation treatment will begin with the patient lying on their back or stomach, depending on the area being treated. With the use of X-ray technology, a surgeon will guide a radiofrequency needle that sends an electric current through the target branch nerve. This will cause the nerve to burn off so that the painful nerve does not continue to transmit pain signals to the brain. 

This procedure will typically take between one to two hours and the patient can return home the same day. Post-surgery, the recovery time is minimal and patients will be instructed on how to carefully resume activity. 

Radiofrequency Ablation Cost

The cost of radiofrequency ablation is dependent on the nature of the procedure, the number of ablations required, the location, and the insurance carrier. BEST Health System accepts Medicare, most private insurance carriers, workers’ compensation claims, and personal injury cases. Contact BEST Health System and see if you are a potential candidate for radiofrequency ablation or alternative procedures. 

Reach out to BEST Health System today!

If spinal joint pain, knee pain, hip pain, and other symptoms are taking you away from family, work, and your favorite hobbies, reach out to the caring team at BEST Health System today. We can help you determine if you are a potential candidate for one of our procedures, including radiofrequency ablation. `

Procedure Doctors

Headshot of Jeffrey Shall, M.D.

Jeffrey Shall, M.D.

Neuropathy Specialist & Spine and Orthopaedic Surgeon

Advanced Orthopedics & Physical Therapy

Headshot of D. Philip Stickney, M.D.

D. Philip Stickney, M.D.

Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon

Brainard ASC

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