Spine Radiofrequency (RFA) Ablation in Manhattan, NY

A radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure in which a needle is placed near the medial branch nerves in your spine and the needles are heated to destroy the sensory nerves that are responsible for sending pain signals into your brain. Radiofrequency ablations are a common procedure that can help to treat localized pain in your spine caused by osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions. RFAs can be performed in your cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine and can provide up to 6 months of relief.

Radiofrequency ablation is an effective technique for delivering months of pain relief. When performed on the spine at Ospina Medical, it can help alleviate significant neck, mid-back, and lower back discomfort. Benefits of this procedure may include:

• Safe, with typically mild side effects
• Effective pain relief
• A prompt recovery timeline
• The treatment can be repeated
• Reducing the need for oral pain relievers
• Improving movement and activity levels

Patients who have a history of pain in their neck, mid-back, or lower back may be a candidate for a radiofrequency ablation. During your first consultation, your physician will review your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine if you may benefit from an RFA. With most insurances, two sets of diagnostic medial branch and/or facet blocks are required before your insurance can approve the RFA. These test blocks are performed to test if your pain is being caused by your medial branch nerves.

An RFA is performed by targeting your medial branch nerves in your neck, mid-back or low back. Using fluoroscopic guidance (X-Ray) your physician will place a needle near your nerve(s). A motor test is performed that causes the muscles near your nerve to twitch. This test is performed to ensure that the physician is not near your motor nerve, or the nerve that controls your muscle movements. After ensuring that the doctor is in a safe position a thermal lesion is created that destroys the sensory nerve. The procedure takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes and has little to no downtime. Patients may experience increased sensitivity in the area following the procedure and can expect to experience improvement around the 4 week mark. Patients who receive relief from an RFA can have the procedure repeated every 6 months, if needed.

If you are experiencing localized pain in your neck, mid-back, or low back contact our midtown Manhattan office today to find out if radiofrequency ablations may be the right treatment for you

What conditions are commonly treated with spine RFA?

Spine RFA is primarily used to treat chronic back and neck pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, facet joint pain, and degenerative disc disease. It is particularly effective for patients who experience joint-related pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections.

Is spine RFA a permanent solution for back pain?

While spine RFA provides long-lasting pain relief, it is not a permanent solution, as nerves can regenerate over time. However, many patients enjoy significant pain relief for several months to a year or more. If necessary, the procedure can be repeated to maintain the benefits. Our team at Ospina Medical will work with you to create a plan that provides the most effective long-term pain management.

How soon can I resume normal activities after RFA?

Most patients can return to light activities within a day or two after spine RFA, although it’s advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days to allow the treatment area to heal.