Radiofrequency Ablation in Monterey

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency Ablation (also known as radiofrequency neurotomy or rhizotomy) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses thermal energy to temporarily disable targeted pain-transmitting nerves.

Using precise fluoroscopic (real-time X-ray) guidance, a specialized, micro-sized needle is placed next to the specific medial branch nerves that transmit pain signals from arthritic spinal facet joints to your brain. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered through the needle tip to create a precise heat lesion, interrupting the nerve’s ability to send pain signals.

Conditions Treated with RFA

RFA is an effective solution for several chronic musculoskeletal and spine conditions:

• Spinal Facet Joint Arthritis: Persistent localized neck (cervical) or lower back (lumbar) pain caused by joint degeneration or wear-and-tear.
• Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain: Chronic pain stemming from sacroiliac joint dysfunction or inflammation.
• Post-Surgical Back Pain: Lingering joint pain following prior spine procedures.
• Chronic Knee & Shoulder Pain: Targeted radiofrequency neurotomy for non-operable arthritic joint pain.

The Two-Step RFA Process

To ensure high success rates and confirm that RFA is the right treatment for you, we follow a rigorous clinical process:

Step 1: Diagnostic Medial Branch Blocks

Before performing ablation, your physician performs diagnostic local anesthetic blocks under fluoroscopy. If these targeted blocks provide significant temporary pain relief, it confirms that the specific facet joints are the source of your pain and that you are an ideal candidate for RFA.

Step 2: The RFA Procedure

• Comfort & Numbing: Performed in our procedure suite under local anesthesia with light sedation if desired.
• Precision Placement: Real-time fluoroscopy guides the specialized cannula directly adjacent to the target nerves.
• Thermal Treatment: Micro-bursts of radiofrequency energy heat the tissue for 60 to 90 seconds per site.
• Rapid Recovery: The procedure takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, and patients return home the same day.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

• Long-Lasting Relief: Pain relief typically lasts 6 to 18 months, giving your body extended time to move, exercise, and rehabilitate comfortably.
• Non-Surgical & Surgery-Sparing: Provides a non-invasive alternative to complex spine surgeries.
• Reduces Medication Dependence: Helps significantly decrease or eliminate the need for daily pain medications or anti-inflammatories.
• Minimal Downtime: Most patients resume normal light activities within 24 to 48 hours.

Integrative Post-Procedure Recovery

To support tissue healing and maximize your physical outcome following RFA, we integrate supportive recovery modalities:

• Infrared Red Light Sauna to ease surrounding muscular tension.
• Targeted Peptide Protocols to support tissue repair and cellular health.
• Stay in the Game Pathways to rebuild core stability and mobility safely.

Reclaim Your Mobility and Comfort

Stop living with chronic neck or back stiffness. Find out if you are a candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation today.