Can Radiofrequency Ablation Help My Joint Pain?

Millions of Americans suffer from joint pain, including the chronic pain caused by arthritis. Unfortunately, joint pain isn't just common — it can also be difficult to treat. 

Though pain medication and adjusting your routine may work initially, many types of joint pain worsen over time, and before long, these simple solutions may no longer be effective. That’s when it’s time to consider more advanced treatment options, like radiofrequency ablation.

At Metro Spine PC, our team performs radiofrequency ablation using the most advanced techniques and technology for optimal benefits and long-term relief of your painful symptoms. In this post, learn how radiofrequency ablation works, so you can decide if it might be a good solution for you.

Radiofrequency ablation basics

Radiofrequency energy is a type of energy that creates heat when it’s applied to tissue, including nerve tissue. During radiofrequency ablation, that heat is used to target nerve endings involved in your specific type of pain. 

When the heat is absorbed by the nerve tissue, it causes controlled damage, blocking nerve signals and relieving pain. The energy delivery system used in radiofrequency ablation is extremely precise, which means only the nerves will be affected while surrounding tissue remains unaffected and unharmed.

Accuracy and precision are achieved in several key ways: First, the amount of energy delivered is customizable and tailored to your individual needs. Second, the energy is delivered by a thin needle-like probe designed to target tiny areas of tissue. And finally, the procedure is performed using “live” imaging techniques for optimal probe placement.

Radiofrequency ablation for your pain

Radiofrequency ablation is typically considered when more conservative, noninvasive options — like medication and physical therapy — no longer provide sufficient relief. It’s also generally recommended for specific types of pain, including joint pain in your knees, neck, hips, back, or other areas. People with osteoarthritis in their weight-bearing joints often find relief with radiofrequency ablation even when other pain-relieving techniques have failed. 

Prior to recommending radiofrequency ablation, our team reviews your symptoms and performs a comprehensive examination, often including diagnostic imaging, to understand the cause of your pain. The ablation is performed under a local anesthetic, which avoids the need for general anesthesia and the potential problems that may arise.

Once the treatment site is numbed, we insert the needle probe using guided imaging for optimal placement. Then, we administer “doses” of energy to ablate or damage the nerve ending, blocking pain signals. Most treatments take less than 30 minutes.

Afterward, you’ll be discharged home where you can expect to resume most activities after a day of rest. You’ll probably have some mild soreness around the injection site for a few days, symptoms that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Learn more about radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation uses state-of-the-art technology to provide long-lasting pain relief that persists for months or years afterward. Best of all, treatment can be repeated as needed to maintain relief.

To learn more about radiofrequency ablation and whether it’s the best choice for you, request your appointment online or via phone with our team at Metro Spine PC in Oxon Hill, Clinton, and Takoma Park, Maryland, today.