Nerve Ablation Procedures

About the Treatment

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) & Rhizotomy

This treatment uses targeted heat generated by radio waves to safely disrupt pain signals from specific nerves. It’s commonly used for:

● Chronic neck or lower back pain from facet joint arthritis

● Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction

● Persistent joint pain (like in the knees or hips) that hasn't responded to other treatments

The relief from RFA can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months or longer, and the procedure can be repeated if necessary.

Pulsed Radiofrequency Therapy

Unlike traditional RFA, pulsed radiofrequency therapy delivers short bursts of energy without fully destroying the nerve. It gently "resets" the way nerves transmit pain, making it a great option for:

● Neuropathic pain (nerve pain that doesn’t respond well to other treatments)

● Pain in sensitive or complex nerve areas where full nerve ablation isn’t ideal

● Patients who need a lower-risk or less aggressive approach

Cryoneurolysis (Cryoablation)

This technique uses extremely cold temperatures to freeze and deactivate nerves causing pain. It’s often used for:

● Post-surgical or post-traumatic nerve pain

● Peripheral nerve pain (outside the spine)

● Temporary relief of chronic pain in areas like the knees, hips, or chest wall

Cryoablation can provide months of relief and may be repeated as needed.

Who Is a Candidate for Nerve Ablation?

Nerve ablation is typically recommended for patients experiencing chronic pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. You may be a strong candidate if:

• You have chronic neck, back, or joint pain lasting several months or longer

• Diagnostic nerve blocks, such as medial branch blocks have successfully confirmed the source of your pain

• Your pain is caused by conditions like facet joint arthritis or sacroiliac joint dysfunction

• You are looking for a minimally invasive alternative to surgery

• Pain is significantly affecting your daily activities and quality of life

Nerve ablation is often a good fit for patients who want longer-lasting relief without heavy reliance on medication. During your consultation, a personalized evaluation will determine whether this treatment is the right approach for you.

What to Expect During Nerve Ablation Procedures

Nerve ablation procedures are minimally invasive and designed to reduce pain with a quick recovery and minimal downtime.

Before the procedure, you will receive personalized pre-procedure instructions, which may include temporarily pausing certain medications. On the day of treatment, the area is carefully prepared and a local anesthetic is applied to keep you comfortable throughout.

Depending on the technique used, controlled energy is applied to interrupt pain signals. This may involve heat (radiofrequency ablation), cold temperatures (cryoablation), or short bursts of energy (pulsed radiofrequency). Most procedures take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

Many patients experience meaningful pain relief that lasts for several months or longer. Results vary based on the individual condition and the type of procedure performed.

Managing Your Condition After Nerve Ablation

Nerve ablation can provide substantial, lasting relief, but the best outcomes come from a well-rounded approach to pain management. Depending on your situation, post-treatment care may include:

● A guided physical therapy or rehabilitation program to rebuild strength and mobility

● Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints and the spine

● Practicing proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities

● Staying active with low-impact exercises such as walking or swimming

● Attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust your care plan as needed

Our team works with you beyond the procedure to support your recovery and long-term wellbeing.

Treatments Offered

● Shockwave Therapy

● Spinal Injections for Pain Relief

● Nerve Ablation Procedures

● Regenerative Medicine and Alternative Therapies

● Joint and Musculoskeletal Pain Treatments

● Spinal Cord and Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

● Minimally Invasive Spine Procedures

● Headaches, Migraines, and Nerve Pain Treatments

● Pain Management for Chronic Conditions

Why Choose Pain Free Institute

At Pain Free Institute, care is built around precision, personalization, and lasting results. Our pain management specialists use advanced, image-guided techniques to treat the source of your pain, not just the symptoms. We focus on minimally invasive procedures that reduce downtime and help you avoid unnecessary surgery.

Every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific condition and goals. From your initial evaluation through recovery, our team is with you at every stage, with the aim of helping you feel better and stay better.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nerve Ablation Procedures

1. How long does pain relief from radiofrequency ablation last?

Relief from radiofrequency ablation can last between 6 months and 2 years. Relief duration varies with cryoablation and pulsed radiofrequency. The procedure can be safely repeated if pain returns.

2. Is radiofrequency ablation painful?

The procedure is generally well-tolerated. Local anesthesia is used throughout, and most patients report only mild discomfort during and shortly after treatment.

3. How quickly will I notice results?

Some patients feel relief within a few days. Others notice gradual improvement over two to four weeks as the nerve responds to treatment.

4. Are nerve ablation procedures safe?

Yes, these procedures are considered safe when performed by experienced specialists. As with any interventional procedure, there are minor risks — such as temporary soreness or numbness at the treatment site — which your provider will review with you during your consultation.

5. Can the treated nerve grow back?

Yes, nerves can regenerate over time, which is why pain relief may eventually wear off. If that happens, the procedure can typically be repeated to restore relief.

6. What conditions can nerve ablation treat?

Nerve ablation is commonly used for chronic back and neck pain, facet joint arthritis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and certain types of nerve-related pain.

7. How is pulsed radiofrequency different from traditional RFA?

Traditional RFA uses heat to disrupt pain-carrying nerves. Pulsed radiofrequency delivers short bursts of energy to modify nerve signals without destroying the nerve, making it a gentler option for certain areas.

8. What is cryoablation and how does it work?

Cryoablation uses precisely controlled cold temperatures to freeze and temporarily deactivate the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals.

9. Will I need time off after the procedure?

Most patients return to normal activities within 24 to 72 hours. Your provider will give you specific guidance based on your procedure and how you feel afterward.

10. Do I need a consultation before nerve ablation?

Yes. A thorough consultation — including a physical evaluation and review of any prior diagnostic testing — is required to confirm that nerve ablation is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Still have questions? The team at Pain Free Institute is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out if nerve ablation is right for you.

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