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Radiofrequency ablation is a medical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to treat an injured nerve and prevent it from sending pain signals. The procedure is performed as an outpatient service and takes 30-90 minutes to complete, depending on the location of the nerve.
You can return home the same day and resume your normal activities soon after the procedure. Radiofrequency ablation provides long-term pain relief for many types of chronic pain.
Dr. Turok and the team recommend radiofrequency ablation if you've tried other conservative treatments, like physical therapy, chiropractic care, or joint injections, without success. Radiofrequency ablation may be recommended if you have chronic pain caused by:
Radiofrequency ablation is primarily used for spinal pain in your neck or back, since it involves treating your nerve roots where they exit your spinal cord between your vertebrae.
Radiofrequency ablation relieves pain by carefully heating your nerve roots until they can't send pain signals. In most cases, people experience relief from their pain for 6-12 months, depending on the location and severity of their pain.
Dr. Turok can recommend additional therapies, like physical therapy or chiropractic care, after your procedure to improve your strength and flexibility and potentially prevent your pain from returning.
Before your procedure begins, Dr. Turok gives you a local or regional anesthetic to prevent pain while you remain awake. You lie down on your stomach or back on an X-ray table for the procedure.
Once you're comfortable, Dr. Turok carefully inserts a small, hollow needle into the proper location, located with the use of X-ray guidance. He then inserts a small electrode through the needle to rest next to the affected nerve root.
Dr. Turok transfers radiofrequency energy to your nerve root using the electrode. He then tests the area for pain signals and asks you about the sensation you feel when he applies pressure to your nerve. Once Dr. Turok reaches the desired results, he removes the electrode and needle and applies a bandage to your skin.
Dr. Turok may recommend applying an ice pack over the treatment area to prevent discomfort after your procedure. At your follow-up appointment, he evaluates your pain levels and checks the treatment area for appropriate signs of healing.
Find out if radiofrequency ablation can help with your pain by calling or scheduling a visit online now.
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