What to Do Immediately After Radiofrequency Ablation

Chronic neck pain or back pain can lead to disability, which can compromise your independence. Even long after an injury has healed, chronic pain can linger and prevent you from lifting heavy objects, walking for long periods, or getting a good night’s sleep. 

When neck or back pain doesn’t improve with conservative care like anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy, it’s time to consider more advanced therapies. At Integrated Spine and Pain Services in Falls Church and Alexandria, Virginia, board-certified physiatrist Stephanie Clop, MD, often treats back or neck pain with minimally invasive radiofrequency ablation. 

How radiofrequency ablation treats pain

Radiofrequency ablation treats pain by stopping the pain signals from traveling to your brain from the nerves in your spine. The treatment stops these signals by using the energy from radio waves to damage nerves at the source. 

Dr. Clop uses an X-ray to locate the targeted nerve during the treatment. She then guides a needle toward the nerve and transmits radiofrequency energy to it through the needle. The energy damages the nerve, so it no longer causes pain. Other nearby nerves are left untouched. 

What to expect after treatment

Radiofrequency ablation for neck or back pain can last up to a year for some people who get it, though the results vary. 

After treatment, you might feel soreness or muscle spasms around the injection site. You might feel some relief from your pain immediately, but it might take a few weeks to feel the full effect. 

The damaged nerve can eventually regrow, and back or neck pain can reappear. Let Dr. Clop know if your pain returns or gets worse after a radiofrequency ablation treatment. 

Steps you can take as you heal

Dr. Clop provides detailed instructions on how to support your recovery after radiofrequency ablation. You should expect to take a little time to rest at the office before you go home, and you should have someone drive you home after treatment. 

To manage soreness immediately after treatment, you may: 

• Apply ice to the sore area for around 20 minutes at a time
• Avoid applying heat directly to your back
• Avoid baths for at least two days
• Avoid driving and strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours

As you continue recovering from radiofrequency ablation for neck or back pain, Dr. Clop might recommend engaging in physical therapy. Physical therapy can improve back strength and flexibility, reducing your risk for another back or neck injury. 

Dr. Clop also tells you when to return to Integrated Spine and Pain Services for a follow-up visit. 

To find out if radiofrequency ablation can treat your neck or back pain, call your nearest Integrated Spine and Pain Services to request an appointment.