Radiofrequency neurolysis, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a minimally invasive pain management procedure used to provide long-term relief for chronic back, neck, hip and knee pain. Your Northeast Georgia Physicians Group pain management doctor may recommend this therapy if your facet joints have been damaged due to arthritis, injury, or other degenerative conditions.
Radiofrequency neurolysis works by using heat to desensitize nerves, disrupting their ability to transmit pain signals. This therapy is particularly beneficial for extending the relief provided by other pain management treatments, such as facet joint injections.
Am I a candidate for radiofrequency neurolysis?
You may be a candidate for radiofrequency neurolysis if:
- You have chronic pain in the back, neck, hip, or knee that has not improved with conservative treatments such as medications or physical therapy.
- You experience pain due to facet joint arthritis or other degenerative conditions.
- You have undergone successful diagnostic nerve block injections, indicating that the affected nerves are responsible for your pain.
- Surgery is not a viable option for your condition.
- You suffer from whiplash-related pain that has not resolved with other treatments.
What should I expect during and after radiofrequency neurolysis?
Radiofrequency neurolysis is an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients can return home the same day. The process involves:
- Preparation: Your NGPG pain management doctor will instruct you to lie down on a procedure table. You will receive IV sedation and a local anesthetic to numb the treatment site.
- Guided needle placement: Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, your doctor will precisely insert a thin, specialized needle near the affected nerve.
- Radiofrequency treatment: A small electrode is introduced through the needle, generating controlled heat that disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
- Monitoring and recovery: After the procedure, your care team will monitor you until you are cleared to go home. You may experience mild soreness at the injection site, but this typically resolves within a few days.
What are the benefits of radiofrequency neurolysis?
- Provides long-lasting pain relief, often for six months or longer.
- Reduces dependency on pain medications.
- Minimally invasive with little downtime.
- Can improve mobility and overall quality of life.
While radiofrequency neurolysis is not a permanent solution for chronic pain, many patients experience significant relief for extended periods, allowing them to participate more fully in daily activities.
Choose NGPG for Radiofrequency Neurolysis Care
At NGPG Interventional Pain Managment, our specialists are dedicated to providing expert, patient-centered care. We offer advanced treatments like radiofrequency neurolysis to help manage chronic pain effectively. If you are struggling with persistent pain and seeking long-term relief, schedule an appointment today to explore your treatment options.