Why Radiofrequency Ablation Doesn’t Treat Herniated Disc Pain

RFA is a pain management procedure used primarily for facet joint pain. It targets the nerves that send pain signals from the small joints in the spine called facet joints. These joints are responsible for about 10% of chronic back pain cases.

During the procedure, a doctor uses X-ray guidance to place a thin needle near the medial branch nerves. These nerves relay pain signals from the facet joints. Once correctly placed, the tip of the needle heats up to around 80°C. This heat damages the nerve and stops it from sending pain signals.

RFA can provide relief for six months to two years but does not treat the underlying problem. It is a nerve-blocking solution, not a cure.

• Facet Joint Syndrome: Inflammation or arthritis in the facet joints
• Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Pain where the spine meets the pelvis

A herniated disc happens when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in its outer layer. This leakage causes inflammation and pain. Herniated discs are a top cause of back and neck pain.

This condition usually affects the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine. These areas bear more weight and are more mobile, making them more prone to injury.

Symptoms vary based on disc location. In the lower back, patients often feel localized pain and radiating pain down the legs—commonly called sciatica. In the neck, herniated discs cause pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. Numbness, tingling, and weakness are common.

The root cause of pain is inflammation in the outer layer of the disc, not the facet joints.

RFA is best for people with proven facet joint pain. To confirm this, doctors first use a medial branch block—a short-acting numbing injection. If it relieves pain, RFA may be offered.

RFA is not recommended for people with herniated disc pain, as it doesn't treat the disc itself.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many nerves are treated. Patients having RFA on multiple spinal levels may need more time.

Recovery is usually quick. Light activity can be resumed within a day or two. Some people feel mild soreness or swelling at the injection site.

Relief usually begins within 2–4 weeks. However, results are temporary. As nerves grow back, pain often returns within 6 months to 2 years.

In contrast, Deuk Plasma Rhizotomy® can offer permanent nerve pain relief.

RFA is minimally invasive but not risk-free. Risks include:

• Temporary pain or swelling
• Infection
• Nerve damage (rare)
• Misplaced needle damaging nearby structures

Spinal fusions involve cutting, hardware, and long recovery times. They can also lead to issues in nearby discs (adjacent segment disease).

Deuk Laser Disc Repair® avoids all that. It uses a laser to remove only the damaged disc material, preserving movement and reducing risk. Recovery is fast, and patients return to normal life quickly.