Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat to stop pain signals from reaching the brain. By applying radiofrequency energy to targeted nerves, the treatment reduces or eliminates chronic pain at its source.

Millions of people live with pain that affects mobility, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. With RFA, pain can be managed effectively, allowing patients to move more freely and enjoy daily activities again.

At Axis Pain and Sports Management, Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov, MD performs advanced interventional spine and joint procedures, including RFA, to help patients achieve long-term pain relief without the need for major surgery.

When Can Radiofrequency Ablation Help?

RFA is often recommended when other conservative treatments, such as medication or physical therapy, have not provided enough relief. Conditions commonly treated include:

• Arthritis in the spine, especially facet joint pain
  
• Chronic back pain caused by spinal stenosis, herniated discs, fractures, or degenerative disc disease
  
• Neck pain, whiplash, and post-surgical spinal pain
  
• Nerve-related conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia or peripheral neuropathy
  
• Pain radiating to the buttocks, hips, or legs
• Some types of headaches

Am I a Candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation?

You may be a good candidate if:

• You have chronic back or neck pain that keeps returning
  
• Conservative treatments have not been successful
  
• Your range of motion is limited due to pain
  
• You want to avoid surgery
  
• Pain has persisted or returned after a prior procedure
  

Dr. Abrakhimov uses advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques to confirm whether RFA is appropriate for your condition.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is performed in-office and typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
  
• You may receive a mild sedative or local anesthetic for comfort.
  
• Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray guidance), Dr. Abrakhimov positions a small insulated needle near the affected nerve.
  
• A radiofrequency current passes through the electrode to heat the nerve tissue, interrupting pain signals.
  
• Multiple nerves may be treated in a single session if needed.
  

After the procedure, patients may experience temporary soreness at the injection site, but recovery is generally quick, with most people resuming normal activity within a day or two.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

• Long-lasting pain relief (often six months to two years)
  
• Improved mobility and function
  
• Outpatient treatment with no hospital stay
  
• Minimal downtime and fast recovery
  
• May delay or eliminate the need for surgery

Why Choose Axis Pain and Sports Management?

• Expert physician: Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov is board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine with fellowship training in interventional pain management.
  
• Advanced precision: All procedures are performed with fluoroscopic imaging for accuracy and safety.
  
• Minimally invasive focus: RFA and other procedures are designed to maximize relief while minimizing recovery time.
  
• Patient-centered care: Every treatment plan is personalized to your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
• Convenient location: Comprehensive pain care available in Queens, NY.