Radiofrequency Ablation
A Breakthrough in Treating Spine Pain in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island
Managing spine pain is crucial for improving overall quality of life, and one of the most effective treatments available at Nivens Spine Medicine is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves supplying the arthritic joints of the spine, providing significant and lasting relief for our patients.
Understanding Axial Spine Pain
Axial spine pain refers to pain localized in the neck or lower back that does not radiate to other parts of the body. This type of pain is often caused by arthritic changes in the spine’s joints, a common condition as we age. Traditionally, treatment options for this pain were limited, but advancements in medical technology have introduced new and effective techniques like Radiofrequency Ablation.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation disrupts the nerve signals responsible for transmitting pain from the arthritic joints of the spine. By targeting these nerves, RFA provides long-term pain relief, allowing patients to resume their daily activities with improved comfort and mobility.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
The RFA process begins with diagnostic nerve blocks. Here’s how it works:
1. Diagnostic Nerve Blocks: A long-acting local anesthetic is administered around the suspected nerves. If patients experience a significant reduction in pain (50% or more) during the time that the anesthetic is working, it indicates that these nerves are contributing to their pain.
2. Confirmation: This diagnostic block is performed twice to ensure accuracy.
3. Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure: During the procedure, needles are inserted into the area where the affected nerves are located. Radiofrequency energy is then applied, heating the targeted area and creating a small scar. This scar disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
Long-Lasting Relief
One of the key benefits of RFA at Nivens Spine Medicine is its longevity. The relief provided by this procedure can last for a year or more, with many patients experiencing pain reduction for two to three years before needing a repeat procedure.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation
The advantages of RFA are numerous, making it a highly effective treatment option for axial spine pain:
- Minimally Invasive: RFA requires no incisions and involves a relatively quick recovery time.
- Significant Pain Reduction: Patients often report substantial reductions in pain, enabling them to return to their daily activities with greater ease.
- Effective for Small Joints: The precision of RFA allows effective targeting of small, arthritic joints in the spine, which are difficult to treat with traditional injection methods.
A Holistic Approach to Spine Health
Incorporating radiofrequency ablation into a comprehensive treatment plan can significantly enhance spine health. Alongside RFA, home exercises and healthy diet recommendations play a crucial role in maintaining overall spine well-being. Our holistic approach ensures that patients receive well-rounded care, addressing not only immediate pain relief but also long-term health and prevention.
Expertise and Personalized Care
With over two decades of experience and specialized training in spine medicine, Dr. Charles Nivens leads the practice with a commitment to innovative, safe, and effective treatments. His extensive experience and patient-centric philosophy ensure that each patient receives the highest standard of care, personalized to their specific needs.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us. Taking the first step towards a pain-free life is now more achievable than ever.