Chronic back pain is one of the top causes for visiting a pain management doctor. If you suffer from chronic back pain, ask your doctor about radiofrequency ablation (RFA). RFA is a safe, outpatient procedure that treats back pain and allows you to return to your normal daily activities quickly.
Radiofrequency ablation involves using radio waves to create an electrical current that can interrupt pain signals. This is accomplished by inserting a needle into the treatment area. A current is then passed through an electrode in the needle and is used to heat the nearby nerve tissue. This results in the blockage of pain signals.
During the procedure, your doctor may use a local anesthesia and mild sedative. Depending on the treatment area, you will either lay on your back or stomach. The doctor will then use x-ray imaging to guide the small needle to the treatment area near your spine.
Once in place, the doctor will insert an electrode through the needle and stimulate the nerves. You will feel a tingling sensation during this stimulation. The purpose of this nerve stimulation is to locate the optimal place for pain relief.
After the optimal treatment location is found, the doctor will send a radiofrequency current through the electrode in the needle. This current will heat the nerve tissue to block pain pathways. After the procedure, you may have some minor discomfort at the treatment site. However, this is only temporary and should subside in a few days or weeks.
Your back pain should also subside over the next few weeks. RFA is very effective and the pain signals are usually blocked for a long time - usually 6-12 months and sometimes up to two years. If your pain returns, the procedure can be repeated.
If you are looking for back pain relief from a Las Vegas back pain doctor, contact Apex Medical Center. Radiofrequency ablation is one of Dr. Ezeanolue’s areas of specialty. He has extensive training and expertise in this particular treatment approach.
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