Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment designed to offer longer‑lasting relief for chronic pain that keeps returning, especially when injections such as facet joint injections or nerve root blocks have helped but not for long enough. It is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the nerves responsible for carrying pain signals, giving many people months of improved comfort and mobility.
Radiofrequency ablation is used for chronic pain conditions affecting your spine and some arthritic joints. It is not the same as radiofrequency ablation used for varicose veins. If you were looking for vascular treatment, you can read about that here.
This page explains what radiofrequency ablation is, how it works, what to expect during the procedure, how long relief lasts and whether it may be right for you.
Radiofrequency ablation, often shortened to RFA, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to disrupt nerves that carry pain signals. These nerves are small branches that transmit pain from joints or structures in your spine. By interrupting the nerve’s ability to send pain messages, RFA can significantly reduce symptoms.
RFA does not cure the underlying cause of pain. Instead, it changes how your nerve communicates with your brain. Because nerves can regenerate over time, relief is not permanent. However, many people experience meaningful improvement for several months or longer, and the procedure can be repeated if symptoms return.
RFA is commonly used for:
Facet joint‑related back and neck pain
Some types of arthritic joint pain
Pain that has responded to injections but only for a short period
If you have already tried injections and found temporary relief, RFA may be the next step in your treatment plan.
Radiofrequency ablation is a day‑case procedure. You arrive at the hospital, have the treatment and go home the same day.
Guided needle placement
Your consultant uses X‑ray or ultrasound guidance to place a fine needle next to your nerve that is causing pain. This ensures accuracy and helps target the correct nerve branch.
Local anaesthetic
Your skin and surrounding tissues are numbed with local anaesthetic so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Some clinics also use a small test stimulation to confirm the correct nerve before applying radiofrequency heat.
Radiofrequency treatment
Once the needle is in the right position, a radiofrequency current is applied. This heats your nerve and disrupts its ability to send pain signals. The heat is controlled and precise, affecting only your targeted nerve.
Going home
After the procedure, you will rest briefly before going home. Most people can walk out of the hospital without difficulty, although you will need someone to drive you.
Book a consultation to discuss whether radiofrequency ablation is right for you.
Relief from radiofrequency ablation varies from person to person, but many patients experience improvement lasting six months to a year. Some people report even longer relief, especially when combined with physiotherapy and lifestyle changes.
Pain may gradually return as the nerve regenerates. This is normal and does not mean the treatment has failed. If relief fades, the procedure can be repeated.
Results depend on:
The underlying cause of your pain
The number of nerves treated
Your overall health
Whether you follow a rehabilitation plan after treatment
Radiofrequency ablation is generally safe, and serious complications are rare. Your consultant will explain all relevant risks before you consent to treatment.
Common side effects include:
Soreness or bruising at the treatment site
Temporary numbness or a burning sensation in the treated area
A short increase in pain before improvement
Less common side effects include:
Infection
Temporary changes in sensation
Mild swelling or stiffness
Most side effects settle within a few days. If you have concerns after treatment, your consultant or nursing team can advise you.
Ramsay Health Care provides consultant‑led radiofrequency ablation with fast access to appointments and personalised care. Our pain specialists use imaging guidance for accuracy and work closely with physiotherapists and spinal teams to support your recovery.
Why choose Ramsay:
Experienced pain management specialists
Shorter waiting times than the NHS for consultation and surgery
Physiotherapy available to support recovery
Self‑pay options with the Total Care package and 0% payment plans available
Most major private medical insurance accepted
Clear pricing and flexible booking
Explore:
Book an appointment or call us on 0808 223 0500
Radiofrequency ablation is used to treat chronic pain that comes from irritated nerves, especially around the facet joints in your spine. It is often recommended when injections have helped but only for a short time.
Many people experience relief lasting six months to a year. Pain may return gradually as your nerve regenerates, and the procedure can be repeated if needed.
Ramsay offers fixed, transparent pricing agreed before treatment. Costs vary depending on the number of nerves treated and your individual plan. A guide price can be provided after your consultation.
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so most people feel only mild pressure or warmth during the procedure. Some soreness afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly.
Radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain targets nerves in your spine or joints. Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins treats damaged veins using a catheter. They are completely different procedures. Explore VNUS varicose vein treatment
Ramsay Health Care UK, announces a new partnership with Doctor Care Anywhere, one of the UK’s leading virtual primary care providers. The collaboration will give Ramsay patients fast, convenient access to self-pay online GP appointments, with seamless onward referrals into Ramsay’s network of hospitals and specialists where secondary care is required.
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