Radiofrequency Ablation

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation is a pain-relieving treatment that uses heat to destroy nerve tissues, thereby reducing pain signals to your brain. The treatment uses a needle to emit radiofrequency energy (radio waves) into painful nerves. 

Dr. Wu may suggest this treatment if other pain management methods (e.g., physical therapy, ice packs, heat, or rest) haven’t successfully eliminated your discomfort.

Which conditions can radiofrequency ablation treat?

Radiofrequency ablation with Dr. Wu can help treat the following conditions:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Arthritic joint pain
• Cancer discomfort
• Knee pain
• Facial pain
• Peripheral nerve pain
• Arthritis of the spine (spondylosis)
• Heart rhythm issues

This treatment provides long-lasting relief and the exceptional quality of life you deserve. 

What are the benefits of radiofrequency ablation?

The advantages you can expect after undergoing radiofrequency ablation with Dr. Wu include:

• Less pain
• Easier physical activity
• Reduced neck, back, or joint pain
• Improved musculoskeletal functioning
• Little recovery time

Radiofrequency ablation may reduce the need to take addictive pain medications or undergo invasive treatments. 

Am I a candidate for radiofrequency ablation?

To determine if you’re a candidate for radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Wu discusses your medications, lifestyle, symptoms, and medical history. He also completes a physical exam and may order blood testing, imaging procedures, or additional tests. 

Radiofrequency ablation might be your solution if you experience relief following a nerve block injection or have ongoing pain that doesn’t respond to conservative methods. 

What happens during radiofrequency ablation?

During radiofrequency ablation, you lie on your stomach on an X-ray table. Dr. Wu uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. 

Using X-ray guidance, he inserts a small, hollow needle into painful nerves. Using an electrode inserted into the needle, he sends radio waves into targeted tissues. The treatment heats the nerves, preventing them from sending pain signals to your brain.

The procedure might take 15 minutes up to two hours to complete, depending on the number of nerves Dr. Wu addresses. 

What can I expect after the procedure?

After a radiofrequency ablation procedure, have a family member or friend drive you home. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity, bathing, and showering until given the OK. 

Common side effects include tenderness, muscle spasms, and soreness at the treatment site for several days. Ice the affected area and take any medications as instructed. Attend follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions if asked to. 

Schedule a consultation with Dr. David Wu by phone or book one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for radiofrequency ablation.