Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment designed to relieve chronic neck, back, and joint pain by targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. At Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care, our experienced pain specialists use advanced radiofrequency technology to safely disrupt pain pathways and help patients regain comfort and mobility.

We offer radiofrequency ablation at our offices in Hobart, LaPorte, Merrillville, Munster, and Valparaiso, Indiana, providing effective pain relief without surgery or long recovery times.

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses controlled heat generated by radiofrequency energy to disable specific nerve fibers that carry pain signals to the brain. By interrupting these signals, RFA can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic pain.

During the procedure, your provider carefully delivers radiofrequency energy through a thin needle to the targeted nerve tissue. Once treated, the nerve can no longer transmit pain signals, allowing long-lasting relief.

What Conditions Can Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?

Radiofrequency ablation, also known as rhizotomy, may be recommended if chronic pain does not respond to medications, injections, or other conservative treatments.

Conditions commonly treated with RFA include:

• Chronic neck and back pain
• Facet joint arthritis
• Sciatica
• Chronic knee pain
• Pelvic pain
• Peripheral nerve pain

Your Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care provider will review your medical history, imaging, and symptoms to determine if radiofrequency ablation is appropriate for your condition.

What Happens During a Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure?

Radiofrequency ablation is performed in a comfortable outpatient setting by your Centers for Pain Control provider. The treatment process typically includes:

• Numbing the treatment area with a local anesthetic
• Inserting a small, hollow needle near the targeted nerve
• Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray imaging) to ensure precise needle placement
• Delivering radiofrequency energy to create a small lesion that disrupts pain signals

Each nerve takes only a few minutes to treat, and multiple nerves can be addressed during the same procedure if needed.

Recovery and Results After Radiofrequency Ablation

After the procedure, you're spend a short time in recovery before going home the same day. You will need someone to drive you and should avoid strenuous activity until cleared by your provider.

• Mild discomfort may persist for up to two weeks after treatment
• Some patients experience immediate pain relief, while others notice gradual improvement over 10 days or more
• Pain relief can last 9 months to 2 years, depending on the condition being treated

In some cases, the treated nerve may regenerate over time. If pain returns, radiofrequency ablation can often be safely repeated.

Schedule a Radiofrequency Ablation Consultation

If chronic pain is interfering with your daily life, radiofrequency ablation may provide long-lasting relief without surgery. The specialists at Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care can determine whether this treatment is right for you and develop a personalized pain management plan.

To find out more about the pain-relieving benefits of radiofrequency ablation, call the Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care at 219-476-7246 or request an appointment online today.