Radiofrequency Ablation

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an advanced, minimally invasive pain procedure that targets sensory nerves carrying pain signals—most commonly those serving arthritic facet joints in the cervical and lumbar spine. By applying carefully controlled heat to these nerves, RFA disables their ability to transmit pain. Because only sensory nerves are treated, there is no risk of paralysis or weakness from this procedure. A related option, pulsed RFA, does not use heat and can be appropriate for certain sensory-nerve pain conditions.

How RFA relieves pain

During RFA, radiofrequency energy travels through a specialized needle and converts to heat at the tip, which is applied to the targeted pain fibers, similar to how a microwave converts energy to heat. As those fibers are treated, they gradually stop sending pain signals to the brain.

Who might benefit?

Your Iowa Ortho provider may recommend RFA if you have:

• Cervical and lumbar spine pain due to arthritis
• Pain that responded well to prior diagnostic medial branch blocks
• Persistent pain impacting work, sleep, or daily activities despite conservative care

The most common use is for cervical and lumbar spine pain; your care team will determine whether conventional (heat-based) or pulsed RFA is the better fit.

What to expect on procedure day

1. Check-in & review: We’ll take a full medical history and answer your questions before the procedure. An IV is typically started.
2. Comfort measures: You’ll be positioned on the treatment table. Intravenous sedation may be given to keep you comfortable.
3. Image-guided precision: Under fluoroscopy (live X-ray), a small needle is placed next to the target nerve(s).
4. Local anesthesia & ablation: The skin is numbed, then the nerves are ablated (heat applied) to interrupt pain signaling.
5. Recovery: You’ll rest in our recovery area for about 30 minutes before discharge. Please arrange a responsible adult to drive you home.

Typical procedure time: several minutes once you are positioned and prepped.

When will I feel relief & how long will it last?

Many patients notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, with maximum benefit in 4–6 weeks as treated nerves become fully quiet. Your exact duration of relief varies based on your condition and activity level.

Recovery & aftercare

Most patients have minimal difficulty after RFA. A small percentage may experience temporary neuralgia (nerve pain) near the treatment site, particularly after cervical procedures; this usually resolves within a few days. If symptoms persist, follow your discharge instructions or call Iowa Ortho.

Why choose Iowa Ortho for RFA?

• Subspecialty spine pain expertise: Board-certified providers who perform high volumes of image-guided spine procedures.
• Image-guided accuracy: Fluoroscopy ensures precise needle placement and targeted nerve treatment.
• Comfort-focused care: Thoughtful local anesthesia with IV sedation when appropriate.
• Team-based plan: RFA integrated with physical therapy and ongoing orthopedic care to support long-term function.

FAQs

Is RFA the same as a nerve “burn”?

RFA applies controlled heat to sensory nerve fibers so they stop transmitting pain. (Pulsed RFA uses a different, non-heat approach.)

Will RFA weaken my muscles?

No. RFA targets sensory nerves, not motor nerves, so there is no risk of paralysis or weakness from this treatment.

How long is the visit?

The ablation portion takes several minutes once you’re positioned; expect additional time for check-in, preparation, and brief recovery.

Do I need a driver?

Yes. Because an IV is started and sedation may be used, arrange for a responsible adult to take you home.

How soon will I feel better?

Relief typically starts in 1–2 weeks, with peak benefit around 4–6 weeks.

Schedule radiofrequency ablation

If neck or low back pain is holding you back, radiofrequency ablation at Iowa Ortho may help you move with confidence again.

Call 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online to get started.