Facet Injections & Radiofrequency Ablation

What are facet injections and radiofrequency ablation?

Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine that guide movement. In selected patients, they can contribute to localized neck or back pain. Facet injections or medial branch blocks can help assess or treat pain suspected to arise from these joints.

Radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, uses controlled heat to interrupt pain signals carried by the small medial branch nerves. It does not remove arthritis or decompress spinal nerves. Dr. Jalali coordinates this care with an interventional specialist.

Facet joint injections

Lumbar radiofrequency ablation

When might it help?

These procedures may be considered when the pattern of pain suggests a facet-joint source and appropriate nonsurgical treatment has not provided enough relief. Arthritis on imaging alone does not establish that a particular joint is painful.

Pain centered in the neck or back

Facet-related pain is often different from shooting arm or leg pain caused by a compressed nerve root. An examination helps consider competing explanations, including discs, muscles, hip problems, and other structures.

Using a diagnostic block thoughtfully

A medial branch block temporarily numbs the nerves carrying signals from selected joints. The amount and duration of relief, and the change in activity tolerance, help the specialist decide whether RFA may be useful. More than one diagnostic block may be required.

A meaningful but variable period of relief

RFA may provide relief for a period of time, but it is not permanent for every patient because nerves can recover. A favorable block does not guarantee success. The intended benefit should be weighed against procedural risks and alternatives.

Keeping treatment connected to function

The aim is to make daily tasks and rehabilitation more manageable. If the diagnosis is uncertain or blocks are not helpful, the plan should be reconsidered instead of escalating automatically. Weakness or other neurological changes need a separate evaluation.

RELATED CONDITIONS

What does treatment involve?

The interventional specialist uses imaging to guide needles to the appropriate joint or medial branch nerve targets. A facet injection and a medial branch block are distinct procedures. If RFA is selected, specialized needles deliver controlled energy to the intended nerves.

Preparation and coordination

Review medications, blood thinners, allergies, implanted devices, and medical conditions with the procedural team. Follow their individualized preparation instructions and do not stop prescribed medication without guidance.

Progress toward your goals.

Temporary soreness or a pain flare can occur after the procedure. Relief after RFA may develop gradually. Follow the specialist’s guidance about activity, driving, and when to resume exercise.

Keep a record of symptoms and function after a diagnostic block, particularly during the time window the team specifies. After RFA, rehabilitation and sensible activity progression can help translate pain relief into lasting improvements in daily life.

Risks and considerations.

Risks include bleeding, infection, temporary numbness, nerve irritation, increased pain, and lack of benefit. Rare nerve injury or burns can occur. The risk profile differs between injections, blocks, and RFA and should be discussed for the planned procedure.