Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy
Lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy (also called radiofrequency ablation or RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic lower back pain.
This treatment uses heat generated by radio waves to target specific nerves in the lower back (lumbar spine) and temporarily stop them from sending pain signals to the brain.
It is most commonly used for pain coming from the facet joints, which are small joints in the spine that allow movement.
What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?
- Chronic low back pain
- Facet joint syndrome
- Degenerative spine conditions
- Arthritis of the spine
- Pain that persists after injury or strain
How Does Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy Work?
- A needle is placed near the targeted nerve using imaging guidance
- An electrode delivers radiofrequency energy (heat)
- The heat disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals
- This results in reduced pain perception
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before the Procedure
- A diagnostic medial branch block is typically performed first
- If the block relieves pain, RFA is recommended
During the Procedure
- Performed under local anesthesia with or without mild sedation
- You lie on your stomach
- A needle is guided using fluoroscopy (X-ray)
- Heat is applied to the targeted nerves
- Procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes
After the Procedure
- Same-day discharge
- Mild soreness for a few days
- Most patients resume normal activities quickly
Benefits of Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy
✔ Minimally invasive, no surgery required
✔ Provides longer-lasting pain relief than injections
✔ Reduces need for medications
✔ Improves mobility and daily function
✔ Quick recovery with minimal downtime
Pain relief may last 6 months to over a year in many patients.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a candidate if you:
- Have chronic lower back pain lasting 3–6 months or more
- Have pain originating from facet joints
- Experienced relief from a diagnostic nerve block
- Have not improved with medications, therapy, or injections
- Want a non-surgical treatment option
This procedure is often recommended before considering spine surgery.
Risks & Side Effects
- Temporary soreness or burning sensation
- Numbness at the treatment site
- Infection or bleeding (rare)
- Nerve injury (very rare)
When Is This Treatment Recommended?
- Conservative treatments have failed
- Pain is coming from facet joints (confirmed by nerve block)
- Pain is chronic and affecting daily life
- Patients want to avoid surgery
Recovery & Results
- Mild soreness may last a few days to a week
- Pain relief typically begins within 2–4 weeks
- Relief can last months to over a year
- The procedure can be repeated if pain returns
FAQs
Most patients feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia and sedation.
Relief can last 6–12 months or longer in some cases.
Yes, nerves can regenerate over time, which may require repeat treatment.
RFA typically provides longer-lasting relief compared to injections.
Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management
Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.
Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.
Book an appointment here to learn more or call us at 913-339-9437 to schedule now.
Some Of The Other Surgical Procedures We Provide:
FAQs
Using fluoroscopy (X-ray), needles are placed near the medial branch nerve, and radiofrequency energy is applied to destroy the nerve that carries pain signals from the facet joint.
Destroying the medial branch nerve prevents it from transmitting pain signals from the facet joint, reducing arthritis-related back pain.
It is used to treat arthritis of the facet joints, which is a common cause of back pain.
Insurance Providers
Insurance we provide
