Radiofrequency Ablation For Herniated Disc: Is It Effective?
Dr Deuk
Tuesday, June 03, 2025
Radiofrequency Ablation For Herniated Disc
Radiofrequency ablation for herniated disc is often incorrectly considered a treatment for degenerative disc disease. While it can provide temporary relief for facet joint pain, it does not treat the inflammation within a herniated disc.
This article will explore the details of radiofrequency ablation, including how it works, the conditions it is intended to treat, and why it is not suitable for herniated discs. We will discuss the symptoms and causes of herniated discs, who may be a candidate for RFA, and the procedure itself.
Finally, we will review its effectiveness, risks, and the best treatment for herniated discs: Deuk Laser Disc Repair.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure used to provide relief for facet joint pain. It is not an appropriate treatment for herniated disc pain.
It is commonly used to treat chronic pain originating from the facet joints in the spine, which account for only 10% of chronic back pain cases.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
During an RFA procedure, a physician uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to position a radiofrequency needle near the medial branch nerves, which transmit pain signals from the facet joints.
Once in place, an electrode delivers controlled heat (typically 80°C) to damage the nerve, preventing it from sending pain signals.
For facet joint pain, RFA can offer temporary relief lasting between six months and two years.
Conditions Treated With RFA
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is primarily designed to treat pain originating from facet joint arthritis and other joint-related spinal conditions. The conditions most commonly treated with RFA include:
- Facet Joint Syndrome: Inflammation and degeneration of the facet joints, causing localized spinal pain and stiffness.
- Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Pain originating from the sacroiliac joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis.
What Is A Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner nucleus of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the outer annulus. This condition can cause pain by triggering inflammation within the disc.
Herniated discs are among the most common causes of chronic back and neck pain, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Herniated discs can develop from traumatic injury. The most frequently affected areas are the lower back (lumbar spine) and the neck (cervical spine), as these regions bear the most weight and experience the greatest movement.
Symptoms And Causes Of A Herniated Disc
Based on our observations, a herniated disc can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on its location and severity. In the lower back, a herniated disc often leads to lower back pain and, secondarily, radiating pain down the legs. The latter condition is known as sciatica.
The primary cause of lower back pain is inflammation in the tough exterior of the spinal disc.
Patients may also experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected limb. When a herniation occurs in the cervical spine, symptoms typically include neck pain, shoulder discomfort, and radiating pain into the arms or hands.
Who Is A Candidate For RFA?
Radiofrequency ablation is best suited for patients experiencing chronic facet joint pain rather than pain caused by a herniated disc.
Ideal candidates for RFA are individuals who have undergone a medial branch block and experienced temporary pain relief, confirming that their discomfort originates from the facet joints.
These patients typically report localized back or neck pain that worsens with movement, stiffness, and tenderness near the affected joints.
The Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure designed to reduce pain by targeting specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. Understanding the procedure, from preparation to recovery, is essential for those considering RFA as part of their pain management plan.
Preparing For The Procedure
Before undergoing RFA, patients must undergo a diagnostic medial branch block to confirm that their pain originates from the facet joints.
This test involves injecting a small amount of anesthetic near the targeted nerve to see if temporary relief occurs. If the patient experiences significant but short-lived pain relief, they may be a candidate for RFA.
On the day of the procedure, patients should avoid eating or drinking for several hours before their appointment, depending on their doctor’s instructions.
Comfortable clothing is recommended, as the procedure requires access to the back or neck area. Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home afterward, as mild sedation is often used to keep them relaxed during the procedure.
What Happens During The Procedure?
The RFA procedure is performed with the patient lying on their stomach for lumbar RFA or on their back for cervical RFA. The skin is cleaned, and a local anesthetic is injected to numb the area.
The physician inserts a thin radiofrequency needle near the targeted nerve. A mild electrical current is then used to confirm that the correct nerve is being treated, ensuring that motor and sensory functions remain unaffected.
Once the correct nerve is identified, the radiofrequency electrode heats up, creating a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
How Long Does The Procedure Take?
Radiofrequency ablation is a relatively quick procedure, usually lasting between 30 and 60 minutes. The exact duration depends on the number of nerves being treated and the complexity of the case.
Patients receiving ablation in multiple spinal regions may require slightly longer treatment times.
Recovery And Aftercare
Recovery from RFA is generally quick, with most patients able to resume light activities within a day or two. Some mild soreness or swelling may occur at the injection site, but this usually resolves within a few days.
Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications can help manage any discomfort. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for at least 48 hours to allow the treated nerves to settle.
Maximum relief is typically achieved within two to four weeks. However, the effects of RFA are temporary, lasting anywhere from six months to two years before the nerve regenerates.
Because of this, many patients require repeat treatments. In contrast, Deuk Plasma Rhizotomy offers a permanent solution.
Effectiveness And Risks
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) isn’t always effective. Understanding both the success rates and risks associated with RFA is essential when considering this procedure.
Success Rates And Expected Results
RFA has been reported to provide pain relief in over 60% of patients, with results lasting anywhere from six months to two years.
That said, our findings show that the treated nerves eventually regenerate and the pain returns, requiring repeat procedures.
Risks And Potential Complications
Although RFA is considered a minimally invasive procedure, it carries certain risks and potential complications.
Some patients experience temporary discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. In rare cases, complications such as infections, nerve damage, or increased pain can occur.
If the procedure is not performed with precision, there is a risk of affecting unintended nerves, which can lead to muscle weakness or abnormal sensations.
Alternative Treatments
While RFA may be helpful for facet joint pain, it is not a comprehensive solution for all types of spinal pain, namely herniated discs. Alternative treatments offer better outcomes for patients seeking long-term relief.
A Non-Invasive Option For Herniated Disc Pain
Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a minimally invasive, non-fusion procedure that precisely removes the herniated disc material causing inflammation and pain.
This procedure treats the root cause of discogenic pain, providing permanent relief without the need for repeat procedures.
It is a versatile method and can be applied as an L3-L4-L5 disc bulge treatment, L5 herniated disc treatment, or even a C4-C5 disc bulge treatment.
Because Deuk Laser Disc Repair does not involve cutting bones or placing hardware, it preserves the natural structure and function of the spine. With a 0% complication rate, it is the safest and most effective alternative to traditional spinal surgeries.
Traditional Spine Surgery Vs. Deuk Laser Disc Repair
Traditional spinal surgeries, such as spinal fusion, often involve significant risks. These procedures require large incisions, the use of hardware like screws and rods, and lengthy recovery times.
Fusion surgeries can also lead to complications such as infection, nerve damage, and the possibility of adjacent segment degeneration, where nearby discs begin to wear out more quickly.
In contrast, Deuk Laser Disc Repair offers a non-fusion alternative that targets the herniated disc directly. This advanced procedure uses a laser to precisely remove the damaged disc material, reducing inflammation and allowing the disc to heal naturally.
By avoiding the need for fusion, this treatment option preserves spinal mobility and reduces the risk of future complications.
Patients experience faster recovery times and can return to normal activities more quickly compared to those who undergo traditional spinal surgeries.
Conclusion
Many patients mistakenly believe that radiofrequency ablation can treat herniated disc pain. The pain from a herniated disc comes from inflammation within the annular tear, which RFA does not address.
This article has examined what radiofrequency ablation is, how it works, and which conditions it treats. We have highlighted why RFA is ineffective for herniated discs, discussed the symptoms and causes of herniations, and explained the proper treatment for this condition.
Don’t settle for temporary pain relief when a permanent solution is available. Get a free MRI review and eliminate your pain for good.
If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:
- Decompression For Herniated Disc