Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) 

Chronic pain, especially in the back, neck, and joints, can significantly reduce your quality of life. If traditional pain management techniques, such as medications or physical therapy, haven’t provided the relief you need, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) may offer a lasting solution. Dr. Vadim Lipel, a skilled pain management specialist in Encino, California, offers RFA as a minimally invasive procedure to target and alleviate chronic pain by disrupting nerve signals that cause discomfort.

What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to target and disrupt specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. The procedure is most commonly used for treating chronic pain in the neck, back, and joints, but it can also be effective for a variety of other conditions.

During RFA, a needle-like probe is guided into the targeted area using real-time imaging such as fluoroscopy (X-ray). Once the probe is positioned near the nerve, radiofrequency energy is applied to heat and disrupt the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain. This results in significant pain relief that can last for several months or even years.

RFA is often used to treat conditions such as:

• Facet joint pain (commonly caused by arthritis in the spine)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica (pain radiating from the lower back down the leg)
• Neck pain
• Knee pain
• Chronic low back pain
• Myofascial pain (pain in the muscles and soft tissues)

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

• Long-lasting Pain Relief: One of the most significant advantages of RFA is its ability to provide long-term pain relief, often lasting from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the individual and the condition being treated.
• Non-surgical Solution: RFA is a non-invasive procedure that offers pain relief without the need for surgery. This makes it a great option for patients who want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with traditional surgery.
• Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed using a needle that is inserted through the skin, so there are no large incisions, minimal discomfort, and minimal recovery time.
• Reduced Dependency on Medications: By effectively targeting and disrupting pain-causing nerves, RFA can reduce the need for long-term use of pain medications, such as opioids, which can have significant side effects.
• Quick Recovery: Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a day or two following the procedure.

How the Procedure Works

Radiofrequency Ablation is performed in a specialized pain management setting and typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the condition being treated. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.

1. Preparation: Before the procedure, Dr. Lipel will carefully review your medical history and symptoms to ensure that RFA is the right treatment for you. The procedure is done under local anesthesia to numb the area and ensure you are comfortable throughout the process.
2. Guiding the Needle: Once the area is numb, Dr. Lipel will use real-time imaging such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound to guide the needle to the exact location of the nerve causing your pain. This ensures precision and reduces the risk of complications.
3. Applying Radiofrequency Energy: Once the needle is in position, radiofrequency energy is applied to the nerve. The heat generated by the energy disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain, resulting in pain relief. Depending on the treatment area, the procedure may be repeated for multiple nerves.
4. Post-Procedure: After the procedure, you may experience some temporary soreness or swelling at the injection site, but most patients can resume light activities within a day or two. Dr. Lipel will provide post-procedure instructions to help manage any discomfort and ensure optimal recovery.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Following the Radiofrequency Ablation procedure, some patients may experience immediate pain relief due to the local anesthetic used during the procedure. However, the full effects of RFA may take a few days to several weeks to develop as the treated nerves stop transmitting pain signals.

It is normal to experience some temporary soreness, bruising, or swelling around the treatment area, but these symptoms generally resolve within a few days. Dr. Lipel will advise you on activities to avoid during your recovery period and will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.

Is Radiofrequency Ablation Right for You?

Radiofrequency Ablation can be an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic pain caused by conditions such as:

• Facet joint pain (common in the neck or lower back)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica
• Chronic neck or back pain
• Knee pain
• Myofascial pain

If you are struggling with chronic pain that hasn’t responded to medications, physical therapy, or other treatments, RFA may offer a highly effective solution. Dr. Vadim Lipel will perform a thorough evaluation and review your medical history to determine if RFA is the right choice for you.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic pain is affecting your life, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) could provide the relief you need. Dr. Vadim Lipel’s expertise in pain management and his dedication to patient care ensure that you will receive the best possible treatment for your specific condition. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how RFA can help you regain control of your life and reduce your pain.