Treatment guide
Radiofrequency Ablation in Chennai
A targeted procedure that uses controlled heat to reduce pain signals from selected nerves, commonly for facet-joint or knee pain.
Who may be considered
- Confirmed facet-joint pain in the neck or back
- Knee osteoarthritis pain where surgery is not yet suitable
- Temporary benefit from a diagnostic nerve block
Assessment comes first
A consultation, examination and review of scans come first. A diagnostic block may be recommended to check whether the selected nerve is contributing to the pain.
What happens
The doctor places a fine needle beside the selected nerve using X-ray or ultrasound guidance. Local anaesthetic is used before controlled radiofrequency energy is applied.
What it cannot promise
It does not repair arthritis or a damaged disc, and benefit varies. Nerves can recover over time, so pain may return.
Possible risks
- • Temporary soreness or numbness
- • Bruising or bleeding
- • Infection
- • Nerve irritation or injury, which is uncommon
Recovery
Most people go home the same day. Light activity is usually possible soon afterwards, with individual advice before discharge.
Alternatives
- • Medication review
- • Physiotherapy and graded activity
- • Joint or nerve injections
- • Surgical opinion when appropriate
When to seek urgent help
Sudden weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, severe pain after an injury, fever with worsening pain, or a rapidly changing condition needs urgent medical assessment. Trident Pain Clinics is not an emergency service.