Chronic back pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether caused by ageing, injury, or underlying health conditions, persistent pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life. If you’re seeking treatments for pain to find some relief, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) might be the solution you need.

Radiofrequency ablation is an advanced, minimally invasive pain treatment that has gained popularity among chronic pain specialists.

Keep reading this blog to know how radiofrequency for spine works and whether it can help patients with long-term back pain.

What Is Chronic Back Pain?

Chronic back pain is defined as persistent back pain that lasts more than three months. Unlike acute pain, which may result from an injury and heal over time, chronic pain often persists despite treatment efforts. It can be localised to a specific area or radiate to other parts of the body, such as the legs or hips.

Several conditions contribute to chronic back pain, including:

• Herniated or bulging discs: When spinal discs press on nerves, they can cause significant discomfort.
• Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerves.
• Facet joint arthritis:Wear and tear of the small joints in the spine, leading to inflammation and pain.
• Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates down the leg.
• Previous injuries or surgeries: Some people develop chronic pain after spinal injuries or surgery.

Living with chronic back pain affects not only physical health but also mental well-being. Many patients experience:

• Reduced mobility: Making everyday activities challenging.
• Sleep disturbances:  Due to discomfort during rest.
• Depression and anxiety: As a result of long-term pain and frustration.
• Decreased quality of life:Affecting work, social interactions, and overall happiness.

For those struggling with persistent back pain, seeking help from a lower back pain specialist in Sydney can be life-changing. One increasingly popular pain treatment is radiofrequency ablation of the spine.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain by disrupting nerve signals. It involves using radiofrequency energy to heat and reduce the function of specific nerve fibres responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.

RFA targets to the spine commonly are the medial branch nerves, which supply sensation to the facet joints in the spine. By applying controlled heat, the nerves are desensitised, preventing them from sending pain signals.

Radiofrequency technology has been used in medicine for decades. RFA has become a widely accepted pain treatment in Sydney due to its effectiveness and safety profile.

How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?

Before undergoing radiofrequency ablation for spine pain, a chronic pain specialist will first diagnose the source of your pain. The procedure typically follows these steps:

1. Diagnosis & Test Injections:A diagnostic nerve block is performed to confirm the pain source. If you experience significant relief, you may be a good candidate for RFA.
2. Preparation for RFA: The procedure is done under local anaesthesia with mild sedation. You remain awake but comfortable.
3. Insertion of Radiofrequency Needle: A special needle is inserted near the affected nerves using X-ray guidance for precision.
4. Applying Heat to Nerve Tissue: A small electrode delivers controlled heat (80°C) to the nerve tissue, disrupting pain signals.
5. Completion & Recovery: The procedure takes 30-60 minutes, and most patients go home the same day.

By blocking pain transmission at its source, RFA provides significant and lasting relief for many people suffering from lower back pain in Sydney.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Back Pain

Many patients opt for radiofrequency ablation spine treatment due to its numerous advantages:

• Effective Long-Term Pain Relief: Studies show that RFA provides pain relief for six months to two years, making it a reliable treatment for chronic pain sufferers.
• Minimally Invasive Alternative to Surgery: Unlike spinal surgery, RFA does not require large incisions or long recovery periods.
• Quick Recovery & Minimal Downtime: Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.
• Safe & Proven Pain Management Solution: RFA has been used for years and has a strong safety record, making it a trusted treatment offered by lower back pain specialists in Sydney.

Risks and Side Effects of Radiofrequency Ablation

While RFA is generally safe, it does carry some risks. It’s essential to understand potential side effects and complications.

Common Side Effects:

• Mild swelling or bruising at the injection site
• Temporary discomfort lasting a few days
• Numbness or tingling in the treated area

Rare but Serious Risks:

• Infection at the injection site
• Nerve damage (though extremely rare)
• Temporary increase in pain before relief sets in

Choosing an experienced lower back pain specialist in Sydney and following post-procedure care instructions is crucial to minimise risks.

Conclusion

For individuals suffering from chronic back pain, radiofrequency ablation for spine pain offers an effective, non-surgical option to regain quality of life. This pain treatment in Sydney has helped many people find long-lasting pain relief, allowing them to return to daily activities without the constant discomfort.

At PainMed, we specialise in advanced and innovative Sydney pain management solutions, helping patients find lasting relief from chronic pains. If you’re considering radiofrequency ablation and want professional advice, reach out to us at 02 8999 1054.