Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic pain by disrupting pain signals from specific nerves. It is sometimes called “burning the nerves” because it uses heat from radio waves to block the nerve from sending pain messages to the brain.

How It Works

  • Preparation – You’ll be positioned comfortably, and the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic.
  • Needle Placement – A thin needle is guided to the nerve using fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray).
  • Testing – A small electric current checks the correct nerve by briefly reproducing the pain.
  • Ablation – Radiofrequency energy heats the nerve, creating a small burn (lesion) that stops it from sending pain signals.

What It’s Used For

  • Chronic back and neck pain (from arthritis or facet joint problems).
  • Sciatica and radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating from the spine).
  • Joint pain in the knee, hip, or shoulder (from wear and tear).
  • Sacroiliac joint pain (in the lower back and pelvis).

Benefits

  • Long-lasting pain relief (often several months to years).
  • Can reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications.
  • Improves daily movement and overall quality of life.
  • Minimally invasive with a short recovery time.


 While RFA doesn’t cure the cause of pain, it can provide significant relief and help you return to daily activities more comfortably.

Questions?

We’re here to help! If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your care team.

📞 Phone: 907-458-5638
📍 Location: 1919 Lathrop Street Ste 221

Reception
(907) 458-5638
FAX
(907) 458-6415

Monday - Thursday
7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

William H. Doolittle, MD
Medical Building
Suite 221
1919 Lathrop Street

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