If you’ve been experiencing chronic pain that won’t respond to standard treatment, Advanced Pain Medical Group offers radiofrequency ablation for patients in Kern, Los Angeles, and Ventura County.
Radiofrequency neurotomy (or “rhizotomy”) is a minimally invasive procedure that can relieve long-lasting pain for many conditions, including the following.
- Arthritis
- Herniated Discs
- Spinal Stenosis
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Spasticity
- Joint Pain
- Chronic Back Pain
Radiofrequency Neurotomy Vs. Radiofrequency Ablation: What’s The Difference?
These two procedures are very similar and often used interchangeably, as both use radio waves to direct heat into a specific tissue region. The main difference is that radiofrequency neurotomy specifically targets damaged nerves. In contrast, radiofrequency ablation is a broader term that sometimes refers to removing other tissues, such as tumors.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
Essentially, your doctor will use radio waves and heat to interrupt the function of a problematic nerve. While this may sound intimidating, it’s less invasive than surgery, and most patients report only mild discomfort during the process. It typically takes less than an hour, and you should start feeling the relief sometime within the first three weeks after the procedure.
What To Expect At Your Appointment
The doctor will first use a type of X-ray machine called a fluoroscope to locate the problematic nerve and insert a small needle and electrode into it. Next, they’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the targeted nerve. The electrode is then heated up to destroy the nerve, thus interrupting its ability to send pain signals to the brain.
Finding Long-Lasting Relief
Rhizotomy is not permanent because the ablated nerve can regenerate itself over time, thus requiring additional ablation. However, it usually provides much longer-lasting relief than prescription opioids or localized injections. While the length of relief can vary from person to person, you may experience significant pain relief for anywhere from 6 months to several years.
Radiofrequency Neurotomy: The Main Benefits
- Minimal Invasiveness
- Quick Recovery Time
- Reduced Need For Prescription & OTC Pain Meds
- Long-Lasting Relief
Potential Drawbacks Of The Procedure
- It’s common to have temporary soreness or discomfort at the injection site for the first few days.
- The relief is not typically permanent, so you may need follow-up treatments in the future.
- In rare cases, nerve damage or infection can occur.
Find Nerve Ablation In Los Angeles
Overall, a lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy (LRFN) can be an effective and minimally invasive back pain treatment caused by damaged nerves. If conventional treatments haven’t worked, don’t lose hope—this one might work for you! Contact Advanced Pain Medical Group today to schedule a consultation at any of our eight locations.