Radiofrequency Ablation for Arthritis: 4 Key Benefits

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an innovative treatment that uses heat generated by radiofrequency waves to target and deactivate nerves that transmit pain. It’s a minimally invasive procedure, and it can be a game changer for managing chronic arthritis pain.

Eric Fanaee, MD, offers RFA for arthritis at his pain management clinics in Bethpage, Smithtown, and West Islip, New York. It’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for people dealing with arthritis pain, and here are four key reasons why.

1. RFA offers long-lasting pain relief

One of the biggest benefits of radiofrequency ablation is that it can provide long-lasting relief. Unlike other arthritis pain management methods, like medication or even physical therapy, RFA can significantly reduce pain for an extended period of time.

Other treatment options relieve pain temporarily, but the RFA procedure targets specific nerves that transmit pain signals to your brain, effectively disrupting the pain pathway and stopping the sensation.

Many people experience relief that lasts anywhere from six months to several years, depending on individual circumstances. This prolonged relief can dramatically improve your quality of life if you’re dealing with chronic arthritis pain, because it gives you the ability to engage in your daily activities with less discomfort.

2. RFA is a minimally invasive procedure

This means it involves less risk and shorter recovery times compared with traditional surgical interventions for arthritis. During the procedure, Dr. Fanaee inserts a thin needle through the skin and guides it to the target area using imaging technology, like fluoroscopy or ultrasound.

Once it’s in position, the needle emits radiofrequency energy to heat and deactivate the nerve. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and we usually do it on an outpatient basis, so you can return home the same day.

And because RFA is minimally invasive, it can be a viable option for people who aren’t candidates for surgery due to age, medical conditions, or personal preference.

3. RFA can reduce your need for arthritis medications

Chronic arthritis pain may lead you to rely on medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids, to manage your symptoms, even though long-term use of these medications can lead to undesirable side effects and potential dependency. RFA offers a drug-free alternative.

Because radiofrequency ablation delivers targeted pain relief, it can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for pain medications. Treatment can help you decrease your reliance on pharmaceuticals, which minimizes your risk of side effects and improves your overall health and well-being.

4. RFA can give you better mobility and functionality

Chronic arthritis pain can severely limit your mobility and make it challenging to do everyday tasks and favorite hobbies. Because RFA reduces arthritis pain, treatment can improve your mobility and functionality.

With less pain, many people find it easier to move and participate in physical activities. Improved mobility not only enhances your physical well-being, but also contributes to better mental and emotional health because you’re able to engage in activities that bring joy once more.

Struggling with chronic arthritis pain? It’s time to find out if you’re a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation. With its potential to deliver lasting pain relief and improved quality of life, RFA is revolutionizing the way people manage arthritis pain. Contact Eric Fanaee, MD, to get started today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

How Intracept Is Different From Other Back Pain Procedures

If you're dealing with chronic low back pain that hasn't improved with conservative care, it might be time to explore other options. Intracept is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the cause of pain and offers long-lasting relief.
What Can’t You Do With a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

What Can’t You Do With a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator can offer relief from chronic pain, but it's important to understand its limitations. Learn more about the activities that might be affected by having a spinal cord stimulator, so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Will Chronic Neck Pain Resolve on Its Own?

Will Chronic Neck Pain Resolve on Its Own?

Have you noticed that your neck pain doesn’t seem to be going away? Chronic neck pain is complex. And although it may not resolve on its own, that doesn’t mean you don’t have options. Explore effective treatments here.
3 Must-Know Treatments for Back Pain

3 Must-Know Treatments for Back Pain

Chronic back pain can erode your happiness and your quality of life — but effective treatment is out there. From targeted injections to innovative surgical techniques, these treatments offer hope and much-needed pain relief.
Tips to Extend Pain Relief From an Epidural

Tips to Extend Pain Relief From an Epidural

Are you thinking about getting an epidural injection for back pain? It’s a popular option that can provide significant, long-lasting relief. And with these tips, you can maximize the relief you experience. Here’s what you need to know.

Find Lasting Relief From Back Pain With Intracept

Back pain can limit your life — and when traditional treatments fail to provide relief, it’s easy to feel like you’re out of options. Sound familiar? It’s time to learn about Intracept, a procedure that could deliver the lasting relief you need.