Radiofrequency Ablation Specialist

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive solution for chronic pain which also relies on a trial period. If you’ve previously had good results from a nerve block injection, radiofrequency ablation could be the ideal way to extend pain relief and increase your quality of life. At Precision Pain Management, LLC, highly experienced pain management physician John Coccaro, MD, and his team focus on long-term pain relief. Call the Toms River, New Jersey, office, or click on the online appointment scheduler now.

Radiofrequency Ablation Q & A

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation or RFA is a non-surgical procedure that targets the nerves that cause your chronic pain. In this procedure, Dr. Coccaro targets radiofrequency energy precisely into the nerves that trigger your pain signals. This generates heat and creates a lesion that stops the nerve signaling that leads to your pain.

What Kind of Pain does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?

Many types of pain respond well to radiofrequency ablation, including:

● Back pain
● Neck pain
● Sacroiliac joint pain
● Neuropathic pain
● Spondylosis – arthritis affecting the spine
● Lingering pain after spine surgery

Radiofrequency ablation is best suited for chronic pain, especially in cases where the pain doesn’t respond to other types of treatment like physical therapy. If you have severe chronic pain and want to delay or even avoid surgery, radiofrequency ablation at Precision Pain Management, LLC, could be right for you.

How do I Get Ready for Radiofrequency Ablation?

When you have chronic pain, Dr. Coccaro starts with a full exam. He discusses your symptoms with you, reviews your medical history, and assesses X-rays and MRIs carefully. Then, he recommends a treatment approach.

Dr. Coccaro believes in a conservative approach, so he typically starts with a diagnostic test, in which he performs a nerve block injection. This type of injection can disable the nerves causing your pain for a limited time. If the injection relieves your pain significantly, then Dr. Coccaro may recommend radiofrequency ablation because it lasts longer than injections.

Before your scheduled radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Coccaro gives you specific instructions. You may need to temporarily stop taking anti-inflammatory or other medications. Also, you need to ask a loved one to drive you home after the procedure because you receive a sedative.

How Soon does Radiofrequency Ablation Start Working?

It can take up to several weeks to experience the full effect of radiofrequency ablation. During that time, you might have a slight increase in pain, but that’s an indicator that the treatment is working. Within two weeks you will experience significant pain relief.

How Long does Pain Relief Last after Radiofrequency Ablation?

In general, pain relief can last for anywhere from nine months to years. Nerve tissue regenerates gradually after radiofrequency ablation, and as it regrows, it’s possible your pain could come back. You can repeat the procedure later for continued pain relief, if needed.

Learn more about radiofrequency ablation by calling Precision Pain Management, LLC, or book an appointment by clicking on the online scheduler now.