Radiofrequency rhizotomy, or radiofrequency ablation, is a minimally invasive medical procedure that relieves pain at its source.
Award-winning pain management physician Dr. John S. Michels at ISP Health in Dallas, Texas, is well-known for providing safe, highly effective, nonsurgical solutions for pain.
Read more from our team about the conditions treatable with RF rhizotomy and the benefits of this minimally invasive solution for chronic pain.
Dr. Michels may recommend radiofrequency rhizotomy to treat various chronic pain conditions, particularly those involving the spine and certain types of nerve pain.
Conditions that often respond well to RF rhizotomy include:
Pain originating from the facet joints is common in conditions like osteoarthritis or spondylosis. These small joints are located between each vertebra in the spine.
Degenerative changes in the facet joints can irritate and inflame nearby nerves. Depending on the joints affected, facet joint pain can travel into the buttocks, legs, shoulders, arms, or head.
The sacroiliac joints connect the lower spine to the pelvis. Pain in these joints often stems from arthritis or injury.
Cushioning discs between vertebrae in the spine can herniate, causing the softer inner core to bulge against nerves, sometimes causing significant pain. While not a primary treatment for herniated discs, RF rhizotomy can alleviate associated nerve pain.
Neuralgia causes sharp, shooting, electric shock-like pain that can travel along a nerve’s dermatome (pathway).
For instance, trigeminal neuralgia can cause excruciating facial pain due to irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to the face, jaw, and forehead. We may recommend RF rhizotomy to target branches of this nerve to relieve pain.
Occipital neuralgia causes chronic pain at the back of the head and upper neck due to occipital nerve irritation. RF rhizotomy can provide relief by targeting these nerves.
The radiofrequency energy we use during an RF rhizotomy creates a lesion on the affected nerve, blocking pain signals from traveling to the brain. This offers long-term pain relief that typically begins immediately and may last months to years.
Because it’s minimally invasive, most individuals undergoing this in-office procedure return to routine activities within 24-48 hours, effectively reducing the need for pain medication or an invasive surgical procedure.
With long-term pain relief, you may also find it easier to participate more fully in physical therapy or rehab programs aimed at restoring mobility and improving your quality of life.
You don’t have to live with pain. Schedule a visit with Dr. Michels at ISP Health today for award-winning specialty care that relieves your discomfort without surgery. Call our office in Dallas, Texas, today.
