Radiofrequency Ablation in Scottsdale,
AZ (RFA Procedure for Chronic Pain)

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain by targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. At Global Pain Solutions, we provide radiofrequency ablation in Scottsdale, AZ for patients dealing with persistent back, neck, and joint pain that has not responded to other treatments.

The goal of the RFA procedure is not temporary relief, but longer-lasting pain reduction that improves mobility and day-to-day function.

How Radiofrequency Ablation Works

Radiofrequency ablation uses an electrical current generated by a radio wave to heat a small area of nerve tissue, creating a lesion that decreases pain signals from that specific area. The procedure is usually done with local anesthetic and mild sedation and typically takes about 30 minutes. If you need help with pain management, you can contact at 602-610-7299 or book an appointment online.

The RFA procedure is performed using imaging guidance to precisely target the nerves causing pain.

Step 1: Preparation
The treatment area is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic. Mild sedation may be used for comfort.

Step 2: Needle Placement
A specialized needle is guided to the targeted nerve using fluoroscopy (live X-ray).

Step 3: Confirmation
A small electrical current confirms proper positioning near the nerve.

Step 4: Nerve Treatment
Heat generated by radiofrequency energy is applied to disrupt the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.

Step 5: Recovery
Patients typically go home the same day with minimal downtime.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

  • Provides longer-lasting pain relief compared to steroid injections
  • Reduces or relieves pain
  • Improves range of motion
  • Has a short recovery time
  • Reduces the need for pain medication
  • Targets nerves in the spinal column that send pain signals to the brain
  • Creates a semi-permanent disruption of pain signals
  • Decreases pain from severe knee arthritis, often avoiding the need for knee replacement
  • Pain relief typically lasts from 6 to 12 months, with some patients experiencing relief for up to 2 years

The Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure

Intravenous sedation is commonly recommended, and the patient is monitored by an anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). The skin around the injection site is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray), a needle is inserted to the targeted nerve. An electrical current is sent through the needle to confirm proper placement. Pulsed radiofrequency ablation is then performed by applying high-voltage current at specific intervals and temperatures, creating a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals. Anesthetics and steroids may be injected post-procedure to reduce pain.

Who Is a Candidate for RFA Treatment?

Radiofrequency ablation may be recommended for patients who:

  • Have chronic pain lasting longer than several months
  • Experienced temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks
  • Have not responded to physical therapy or medication alone
  • Want to avoid or delay surgery

A consultation is required to determine whether the RFA procedure is appropriate.

Radiofrequency Ablation for the Knee

For knee pain, small needles are inserted around the knee capsule near the genicular nerves. These nerves are ablated to reduce pain from moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis. The procedure requires no incisions and offers minimal recovery time.

Radiofrequency Ablation for Neck and Back

In the neck and back, the needle targets the medial branch nerve that services the facet joint. Sensory and motor stimulation confirm correct needle placement before performing thermal radiofrequency ablation to cauterize the nerve. Post-procedure medications may include local anesthetic and steroids to aid pain relief.

Conditions Treated with Radiofrequency Ablation

  • Lumbar degenerative disc disease
  • Neck and back pain related to arthritis
  • General arthritis pain
  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Facet joint pain and arthritis/arthropathy
  • Spondylosis
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Cervical degenerative disc disease
  • Knee osteoarthritis (OA) and degeneration
  • Neuropathy
  • Postherpetic neuralgia
  • Sacroiliac joint pain
Radiofrequency ablation is a proven and effective treatment option for chronic pain, offering significant and extended relief by targeting nerves that transmit pain signals

Schedule Radiofrequency Ablation in Scottsdale, AZ

If chronic pain is limiting your daily life, radiofrequency ablation may provide longer-lasting relief without surgery.

Contact Global Pain Solutions in Scottsdale to schedule a consultation and find out if the RFA procedure is right for you.

Radiofrequency Ablation FAQs

Many patients experience relief for 6 to 12 months, and in some cases up to 24 months.

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure due to local anesthetic and optional sedation.

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.

Yes, nerves can regenerate over time, which is why the procedure may need to be repeated.

RFA is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure when performed by trained medical professionals.