Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce chronic pain by interrupting the transmission of pain signals from specific nerves. It involves using heat, generated by radio waves, to precisely target and treat the sensory nerves supplying painful joints or spinal structures. Success with RFA depends on careful assessment and accurate identification of the source of pain.
While RFA is not performed on-site at GC Sports Medicine, it is a treatment our doctors frequently recommend as part of a broader pain management strategy. Following a thorough diagnostic process, we refer suitable patients to trusted local providers — typically interventional radiologists or anaesthetist pain specialists — with clear instructions for targeted nerve ablation. In some cases, procedures may be performed in a hospital setting under sedation.
1. Assessment & Diagnosis
Our doctors conduct a comprehensive evaluation to confirm whether RFA is appropriate and to accurately localise the source of pain.
2. Referral for Treatment
If RFA is recommended, we refer patients to an interventional radiologist or pain physician with the necessary facilities and expertise.
3. Diagnostic Nerve Block
Before proceeding with RFA, a diagnostic injection is performed on a separate day. If this injection significantly reduces pain, it confirms the correct target for the ablation.
4. Procedure
Using CT or X-ray guidance, a fine probe is positioned adjacent to the affected nerve. Heat is delivered to the nerve tip, disrupting pain signals through a controlled thermal lesion.
5. Recovery and Follow-Up
Patients receive guidance on post-procedure care and rehabilitation. Pain relief may develop gradually over several weeks, can last many months, generally up to 1 year using standard RFA protocols — potentially longer when cooled RFA is used.
RFA is commonly used for:
Chronic back and neck pain (e.g. facet joint pain, degenerative disc disease)
Sacroiliac joint pain
Peripheral joint osteoarthritis (e.g. knee, hip, shoulder)
Selected peripheral nerve entrapments, provided the targeted nerve does not provide motor innervation (e.g. superior cluneal nerve, interdigital nerves/Morton’s neuroma)
Persistent musculoskeletal pain syndromes
Long-Lasting Relief – Can provide significant pain reduction for up to 1 year with standard RF and possibly longer with cooled RF.
Minimally Invasive – No surgical incision required, with minimal recovery time.
Alternative to Surgery – Offers a non-surgical pathway for managing chronic pain.
Targeted Treatment – Precisely addresses the pain-generating nerve pathways.
If you would like to explore whether RFA might be suitable for your condition, please contact GC Sports Medicine to arrange a consultation.
PLAN
A tailored pain management plan including formal diagnosis review, patient education, guided rehab, appropriate medications, and psychological support if needed.
REFERRAL
If RFA is indicated, patients are guided through the referral process to ensure seamless care.
MONITORING
Patient progress is tracked and treatment strategies adjusted as needed to achieve the best outcomes.
