Radiofrequency (RF) therapy is an advanced interventional technique used to manage certain types of chronic nerve and joint pain. It works by applying controlled electrical energy to targeted nerves in order to alter or interrupt the pain signals they transmit — without the need for major surgery.
At PainMed, we use two types of radiofrequency therapy depending on the condition being treated and your individual needs:
Both techniques are performed using a fine needle under fluoroscopy (X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, ensuring precise placement and minimal risk.
A small device (similar to a pacemaker) is implanted under the skin. It sends electrical pulses via thin wires (electrodes) placed near the spinal cord. These pulses modify pain signals before they reach the brain, helping to mask or reduce the sensation of pain.
Depending on the system:
You’ll have control of your own stimulation settings via a handheld controller.
Radiofrequency therapy can be used to treat a variety of pain conditions,
especially when pain is localised to a specific nerve or joint. These include:
01
Chronic low back or neck pain (e.g. facet joint arthritis)
02
Sacroiliac joint pain
03
Neuropathic pain syndromes (e.g. post-surgical or post-traumatic nerve pain)
04
Occipital neuralgia
05
Trigeminal neuralgia
06
Chronic shoulder, hip or knee pain (when joint denervation is appropriate)
07
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – in selected cases
Radiofrequency therapy uses a specialised probe (needle) to deliver high-frequency electrical energy to the target nerve:
01
In RFA, the tip of the needle heats up to create a small, controlled lesion on the nerve, stopping it from transmitting pain signals.
02
In PRF, lower-temperature electrical pulses are delivered in short bursts to modulate nerve activity without causing permanent damage.
Both approaches are minimally invasive, done as day procedures, and require no stitches or hospital admission.
Radiofrequency treatment may be considered if:
Your suitability will be assessed by one of our pain specialists during consultation.
At PainMed, your care starts with a thorough assessment and diagnosis. We use radiofrequency therapy as part of a broader, evidence-based pain management plan. You’ll be supported by a multidisciplinary team, with clear communication and follow-up at every step.
These pages go into further detail about how each treatment works, what to expect, and the conditions they are best suited for.
Book a Consultation
Ready to explore whether radiofrequency therapy is right for you?
Call us on 02 8999 1054 or email contact@painmed.com.au
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Originally from England, Sally graduated from St George’s Hospital, University of London in 2004 with a BSc (First Class Hons) in Physiotherapy. Since settling in Australia, Sally has worked in private practice and in the public hospital setting across Sydney.
Sally gained a Masters in Medicine Pain Management from the University of Sydney in 2019 and is a Titled Pain Physiotherapist (as awarded by the Australian Physiotherapy Association).
In addition to private practice, Sally currently works as a Senior Physiotherapist at Westmead Hospital Pain Management Service.
Sally is highly skilled in assessing, diagnosing and treating people who experience chronic pain. She enjoys working with injured workers and CTP claimants. She has a deep understanding of the impact of pain on the whole person and on their functioning in daily life. In partnership with her colleagues, Sally enjoys applying her knowledge and clinical skills to provide a safe space for exploration of the physical and emotional meaning of pain and for recovery of function.
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Adam is a Fellowship-trained Pain Medicine Specialist with a Fellowship from the Faculty of Pain Medicine (FFPMANZCA) and a Master of Pain Medicine from the University of Sydney. He is dedicated to the comprehensive management of chronic pain across all age groups.
Dr. Adam trained in adult pain medicine at Liverpool Hospital, Nepean Hospital, and the Department of Pain Medicine, and completed additional training in paediatric chronic pain at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. He currently serves as a Staff Specialist at Westmead and St George Public Hospitals (NSW Health), and is a Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) at Liverpool Public Hospital, St George Private, Sydney Southwest Private, Holroyd Private, Norwest Private, and Nepean Private Hospitals.
He adopts a whole-person, multidisciplinary approach rooted in the socio-psycho-biomedical model, utilising both pharmacologic and interventional techniques. These include:
Dr. Adam is an Authorised Prescriber of Medicinal Cannabis and holds a Diploma in Medicinal Cannabis. He is also certified in Opioid Treatment Programs, including Methadone. His areas of interest include opioid dependence management, medicinal cannabis, and interventional pain procedures.
He also completed advanced training in Virtual Reality Therapy for chronic pain and mental health disorders in Barcelona, Spain, and has further qualifications in Focused Psychological Strategies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Clinical Hypnosis.
Qualifications:
