Neck pain can turn everyday tasks into a struggle. Sitting at a desk, driving, or even sleeping can feel uncomfortable when pain refuses to let up. Tariq Hilal, DO, MS, at South Coast Sports and Spine Medicine in Los Alamitos, California, often sees patients who feel frustrated after trying medications, physical therapy, or injections without lasting relief.
Radiofrequency ablation, often called RFA, can offer another option. Many patients ask if it really works and whether it could help their specific type of neck pain. The short answer depends on the source of the pain and how the nerves respond to treatment. Let’s break it down in plain terms.
Neck pain often comes from irritated joints, muscles, or nerves. Facet joints, which sit between the vertebrae, frequently cause ongoing pain as we age or after an injury. Arthritis, whiplash, or repetitive strain can all play a role.
Doctor Hilal usually starts with conservative care. Physical therapy, activity changes, and medications help many people. When pain keeps returning, nerve-based treatments may make sense.
Common symptoms include:
When these symptoms linger or interfere with daily activities, they often signal an underlying structural or nerve-related issue that may need targeted treatment.
Radiofrequency ablation targets nerves that carry pain signals from the neck to the brain. During the procedure, a physician uses imaging guidance to place a small needle near the affected nerve. The tip delivers controlled heat through radiofrequency energy.
That heat disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals. The nerve does not disappear; it simply stops communicating pain as effectively. The surrounding tissue stays protected because the energy stays focused.
The procedure usually takes less than an hour. Most patients go home the same day and return to light activities soon after.
RFA works best when facet joints are the source of pain. These joints rely on small medial branch nerves to transmit pain signals. By interrupting those signals, RFA can reduce pain at its source.
Before recommending RFA, doctors often perform diagnostic nerve blocks. These temporary injections help confirm which nerve causes the pain. If the block provides relief, RFA is more likely to succeed.
Pain relief does not always happen instantly. Some people notice improvement within days, while others need a few weeks for the treated nerve to settle down.
RFA does not permanently destroy nerves. Over time, nerves can regenerate. Relief often lasts between six months and 18 months, though results vary.
Many patients enjoy a meaningful reduction in pain, allowing them to move more freely. Some people repeat the procedure when pain returns. Others find they no longer need it after improving their strength and posture.
RFA suits people with chronic neck pain that does not respond to conservative care. It works best when imaging and exam findings point to facet joint involvement. Diagnostic blocks help confirm candidacy.
RFA may not help with pain caused solely by disc herniation or muscle strain. A thorough evaluation ensures the treatment matches the problem.
RFA has a strong safety profile when performed by experienced providers. Temporary soreness or swelling near the injection site can occur. Serious complications remain rare.
Most people resume normal routines within a day or two. Gentle movement often helps recovery. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your situation.
Studies show that RFA can significantly reduce neck pain for carefully selected patients. Many report improved function and less reliance on pain medications. Results depend on accurate diagnosis and proper technique.
RFA does not cure arthritis or degeneration. It controls pain so you can stay active and engaged in daily life. For many people, that makes a meaningful difference.
If chronic neck pain limits your life, radiofrequency ablation may offer a solution worth exploring. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to find out if this treatment fits your needs.
