Arkansas Pain Specialists

Radiofrequency Ablation For Neck Pain

Precise relief starts at the source—radiofrequency treatment that silences pain.

What is Radiofrequency Ablation For Neck Pain?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA/rhizotomy) is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses the energy of radio waves to stun/burn the painful nerves of the neck  and eliminates the transmission of pain signals to your brain. 

Who is a candidate?

It is often used to treat conditions such as:

  • Spinal arthritis (spondylosis)
  • Injuries, such as whiplash
  • Complex regional pain syndrome
  • Peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome
  • Prior spine surgeries 

Personalized Treatment

Customized plans based on your unique medical history and pain

Comprehensive Care

Regular monitoring and adjustments to ensure optimal pain relief.

Improved Quality of Life

Enhanced daily function and reduced pain levels.

What Do I
Need To Know?

Cervical Medial Branch Block

This injection is a diagnostic test that will help determine if the radiofrequency ablation will effectively eliminate the transmission of pain signals to your brain. If must be completed before moving on to radiofrequency ablation.

Benefits Of Radiofrequency Ablation

Consider the benefits of the procedure and speak to your provider about your options.

1

Minimally invasive, non surgical procedure with little to no recovery time.

2

Immediate pain relief that decreases the need for pain medications.

3

Better and longer-lasting pain relief compared to steroid injections.

4

Faster return to work and other activities.

What to Expect

During Your Treatment

1

During the procedure
  • A local anesthetic will be used to numb your skin. A small needle will then be inserted near the facet joints of the neck.
  • Fluoroscopy, a type of x-ray, will  be used to position the needle.
  • Once the needle is properly placed, the nerve will be numbed.
  • Radiofrequency energy will then be used to disrupt the medial branch nerve.
  • This is often repeated at more than one level of the spine.

2

After the procedure
  • Most patients are able to walk around immediately after the procedure, but you should still bring a driver to take you home after the procedure is completed if you have been sedated.
  • As the anesthetic wears off, you may feel sore and have pain in the treated area.
  • It can  take one to two weeks for the ablated nerves to stop sending pain signals to your brain. 

3

Results of the procedure​
  • Pain relief may last from 6 months to more than a year. It is possible the nerve will regrow and start the cycle of pain again.
  • If the nerve does regrow, it is usually 6-12 months after the procedure.
  • Radiofrequency ablation is 70-80% effective in people who had a successful nerve block trial.
  • The procedure can be repeated if needed.  

4

What are the risks?
  • As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a rare chance of infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and nerve damage.
  • Complications are extremely rare. Talk with your provider if you have specific questions about the risk of your procedure.  

Preparing for Your Appointment

CONSULTATION REQUIRED

Ensure you have a referral and necessary medical records.

ARRIVAL

Arrive 20 minutes early to complete initial paperwork.

DOCUMENTATION

Bring your Photo ID, insurance card, updated medication list, and any relevant imaging reports.

Ready to Manage Your Pain?

Take control of your health with our personalized and comprehensive treatment solutions.

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