How Radiofrequency Ablation of the Cervical Spine Can Provide Lasting Relief from Chronic Neck Pain

How Radiofrequency Ablation of the Cervical Spine Can Provide Lasting Relief from Chronic Neck Pain

If you’ve ever experienced any type of neck pain, then you know how irritating it can be and how much it can prevent you from doing certain things you enjoy. Chronic neck pain can greatly impact your daily life (in every aspect). Luckily, new medical procedures like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of the cervical spine provide hope for long-term relief. At The Comprehensive Pain Institute, we specialize in this minimally invasive neck pain treatment in Bedford & Benbrook, TX designed to target the root causes of neck pain.

 

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency Ablation is a procedure that targets the nerves sending pain signals from the neck to the brain. By interrupting these signals, RFA can greatly reduce or even eliminate pain, offering long-lasting relief for many of our patients.

 

What Conditions Can Be Treated With RFA?

RFA can be effective for chronic neck pain caused by several conditions:

  • Facet Joint Arthritis: Inflammation and wear of the facet joints can cause ongoing neck pain.
  • Cervical Spondylosis: Natural wear and tear on spinal discs as we age can lead to discomfort and stiffness in the neck.
  • Whiplash Injuries: Trauma from sudden neck movements (think car accidents) can result in neck pain.
  • Failed Neck Surgery: Pain that continues even if you’ve moved forward with other treatment options.

 

How Does the Procedure Work?

  • Pre-Procedure Prep: After positioning comfortably and cleansing the neck area, an anesthetic is administered locally in order to numb it before beginning treatment – this ensures minimal discomfort during the procedure.
  • Guidance: With X-ray guidance, our physicians carefully insert needles near the targeted nerves.
  • Identification of the Nerve: An electrical current is applied through the needle to confirm the nerve causing the pain.
  • Ablation: Once the nerve is found, radiofrequency energy is sent through the needle to heat and disable it. This then stops the nerve from sending pain signals.

The entire procedure typically takes between 30 to 90 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.

 

Benefits of RFA for Long-Lasting Pain Relief

Many patients experience significant pain relief lasting from six months to two years. Some of the key benefits of RFA include:

  • Minimally Invasive: RFA significantly lowers the risks associated with surgery and speeds up recovery time.
  • Reduced Need for Medication: By targeting the source of chronic pain, RFA can decrease the reliance on pain medications.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Many patients say they experience improved mobility and a better quality of life after the procedure.

 

Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment in Bedford & Benbrook, TX

If you’re dealing with chronic neck pain and looking for a lasting solution, we highly recommend seeing if Radiofrequency Ablation is right for you. Our experienced team at The Comprehensive Pain Institute is ready to help you take control of your life again—we have convenient pain clinics in Bedford & Benbrook, TX. Call us today to schedule your appointment—we look forward to caring for you!

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