Procedure Description
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic spine pain caused by arthritis or degeneration of the facet joints. These small joints, located along the back of the spine, can become inflamed due to spinal arthritis (facet arthropathy), leading to persistent neck or back pain.
RFA works by using radiofrequency energy to heat and deactivate the tiny sensory nerves (medial branch nerves) that carry pain signals from the facet joints to the brain. This does not affect movement or strength, and the pain relief may last for several months or longer.
What It Treats
RFA is commonly used to treat:
Cervical (neck) facet joint pain
Thoracic (mid-back) facet joint pain
Lumbar (lower back) facet joint pain
Spinal arthritis (facet arthropathy)
Postural or mechanical back pain
Pain after whiplash or spine injury
Pain worsened by twisting, bending, or prolonged sitting/standing
Patients often experience aching pain close to the spine that is worse in the morning or with movement, and may have already had temporary relief from prior medial branch nerve blocks (used as a diagnostic step before RFA).
How It Is Performed
You will lie face down on a procedure table.
The skin over the treatment area is cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a thin RFA probe is inserted near the medial branch nerves that supply the painful facet joints.
A small electrical current is used to confirm that only sensory nerves are being targeted (not motor nerves).
Once confirmed, radiofrequency energy is applied to heat and ablate the nerve, stopping its ability to transmit pain.
The probe is withdrawn, and a small bandage is applied.
The procedure takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of levels treated, and is performed in an outpatient setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours if sedation is planned.
Review all medications with your provider—blood thinners may need to be paused.
Inform your provider if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have allergies to anesthetics or contrast dye
Have an active infection, fever, or uncontrolled health condition
Arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation is used.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid wearing jewelry around the treatment area.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may experience soreness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites for a few days.
Some patients have a temporary increase in pain before improvement begins.
Pain relief typically starts within 1–3 weeks and may last 6–12 months or longer.
Physical therapy may be recommended to enhance and prolong results.
You can usually resume light activity the same day but should avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.
RFA can be repeated if pain returns once the treated nerves regenerate.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Severe or worsening pain
Numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking
Regain Control Over Chronic Spine Pain
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer radiofrequency ablation for spinal arthritis pain as a safe, effective alternative to long-term medications or invasive surgery. RFA provides lasting relief from neck and back pain caused by facet joint degeneration, helping you return to the activities you enjoy.
👉 Schedule a consultation today to find out if you're a candidate for spinal RFA treatment.