Gone are the days when those suffering from chronic pain, particularly chronic knee pain, were caught between a rock and a hard place: pain medications, which wear off quickly; and invasive surgeries, which are fraught with risks and come with a lengthy recovery time.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a refreshing breakthrough in the field of pain management, offering a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution to chronic knee pain. As research continues to demonstrate RFA’s effectiveness, it is becoming the preferred choice among individuals with knee arthritis or postoperative chronic knee pain who are looking for a more sustainable and safer alternative.
In the sections ahead, you will learn more about radiofrequency ablation for knee pain: how it works, how it compares to other treatment options, who is a good candidate for it, and where to find a reputable provider in Melbourne, FL.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Mechanism of Action
Radiofrequency ablation works by tackling the root cause of pain. In the case of knee pain, RFA targets the genicular nerves, which are responsible for sending pain signals from the knee to the brain.
During the procedure, an interventional pain management physician uses image guidance, typically fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray), to precisely locate the affected nerves around the knee. A specialized needle or a thin catheter is then inserted near the targeted nerves, through which a small radiofrequency current is delivered. This current generates controlled heat, usually around 80 degrees Celsius, which safely “ablates” or destroys the particular area of the nerve. This then disrupts the nerve’s ability to relay pain signals.
It is worth mentioning that RFA does not permanently destroy the nerve. Over time, it may grow back, which is why some patients may require repeat treatments to maintain long-term pain relief. Also, the nerves treated in RFA do not control muscle strength or movement, so the procedure does not affect knee function. This targeted approach is what makes RFA both effective and safe, providing long-lasting relief without compromising knee function and mobility.
Who is a Candidate for RFA?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is best suited for individuals with chronic knee pain who have not found adequate relief from more conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, and joint injections but are looking to delay or avoid surgery. It is especially beneficial for people with knee arthritis or those who suffer from chronic pain following knee replacement surgery.
While radiofrequency ablation for knee pain is generally safe and well-tolerated, it may not be suitable for you if you have a bleeding disorder or active infection near your knee, or if you are allergic to local anesthetics. A thorough evaluation by your interventional pain management physician is essential to determine if RFA is the right choice for you based on your medical history and response to diagnostic testing, among other factors.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Advantages
When it comes to managing chronic pain, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers distinct advantages over surgery and medications.
In contrast to pain medications, which merely mask symptoms and offer short-term relief, RFA targets the source of the pain. This leads to longer-lasting relief and significantly reduces—if not eliminates—the need for ongoing medication use. Moreover, while surgery can be beneficial for some, it is not always a guaranteed fix. Many patients continue to experience knee pain even long after their knee surgery, ultimately turning to RFA as a more effective alternative.
Furthermore, RFA is minimally invasive, which means it does not involve large incisions, general anesthesia, or a prolonged hospital stay. Patients typically experience only mild discomfort after the procedure and can return to their normal activities within a day or two, whereas surgery often requires weeks or even months of recovery.
Finally, with RFA, you can avoid the long-term risks associated with chronic medication use and the potential complications of invasive surgery.
Radiofrequency Ablation in Melbourne, FL
If chronic knee pain has kept you from living the life you love, it is time to find out whether RFA is the right solution for you—visit us here at Central Florida Spine & Pain.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) belongs to the wide array of interventional pain management services we offer to help the people in our community reclaim their mobility and live vibrant, productive, and pain-free lives.
To arrange a visit with our interventional pain management physician, Dr. Nicholas Giordano, contact us at (321) 802-5021.
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