The temperatures produced in these intervals range from 40° to 42☌ (104° to 107.8☏). Brief intervals of high voltage current (20 milliseconds) are followed by longer intervals (489 milliseconds). Pulsed radiofrequency ablation uses different levels of electrical current at different intervals held for varying lengths of time. This continuous pulse is applied to multiple nerve sites to increase the likelihood of pain relief. This is the approximate length of time required for the heat to cause nerve damage. This temperature stays stable for 80 to 90 seconds. There are two types of radiofrequency ablation:Īs their names suggest, continuous radiofrequency ablation delivers a mild electrical signal continuously, and a pulsed radiofrequency ablation sends intermittent pulses to the affected nerves.įor continuous radiofrequency ablation, the electrical current applied is gradually increased to a temperature of between 50° and 80☌ (122° and 176° F). Varicose veins and venous insufficiency.Other types of lower back pain unrelated to the facet joint.Radiofrequency ablation can also treat the following conditions: The most common condition treated by radiofrequency ablation is lower back facet joint pain where the medial branch nerves are located. However, the facet joints and their function in the spine are vulnerable to injury, tissue damage, and inflammation. Together with the intervertebral discs, these facet joints aid in flexibility and movement of the vertebrae, gliding seamlessly in multiple directions. The 33 vertebrae of the spine are connected on both sides with facet joints that join the vertebrae. These days, radiofrequency ablation is often associated with the treatment of chronic pain in and around the spine. This electrical pulse disrupts pain signals and can help relieve chronic pain. Radiofrequency ablation delivers an electrical current into these nerves transmitting pain signals to the brain. Trigeminal neuralgia is a pain condition in which facial nerves send severe jolts of pain across the face and down the sides of the neck. Radiofrequency ablation is a chronic pain therapy first discovered in 1931 as a treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. Radiofrequency ablation is generally considered a safe procedure for managing pain, but if you are considering it these are 11 radiofrequency ablation side effects to be aware of (and what to do about them). One of the important parts of discussing potential pain-relieving procedures is making sure you understand what side effects might occur. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, chances are good you have looked at many different options for relief.

Pain worse after emg