Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in Queens, NY

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that uses controlled heat energy to stop painful nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. By targeting the source of chronic pain, RFA can provide long-lasting relief, improve mobility, and reduce the need for medications.

At Axis Pain and Sports Management, Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov, MD offers RFA as part of a comprehensive, minimally invasive approach to treating spine, joint, and nerve pain.

When Can Radiofrequency Ablation Help?

RFA is often recommended when conservative treatments haven’t provided lasting relief. It is most commonly used to treat:

• Arthritis of the spine (facet joint arthritis)
  
• Chronic back or neck pain from irritated nerves
  
• Degenerative disc disease and vertebral changes
  
• Pain following spine surgery (“failed back surgery syndrome”)
  
• Sciatica and nerve-related leg pain
  
• Whiplash injuries
  
• Certain types of chronic headaches
  
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

• Provides relief lasting 6 months to 2 years in many patients
  
• Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
  
• Reduces or eliminates the need for daily pain medications
  
• Improves mobility and quality of life
  
• Quick recovery with little downtime
  
• Safe and effective when performed under imaging guidance

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Evaluation – Dr. Abrakhimov reviews your medical history, performs an exam, and may order imaging to confirm if RFA is right for you.
   
2. Preparation – You’ll lie comfortably on the treatment table. A mild sedative or local anesthetic is used to ensure comfort.
   
3. Needle Placement – Using fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance), a thin, insulated needle is inserted near the targeted nerve.
   
4. Energy Delivery – An electrode passes radiofrequency energy through the needle to heat and disable the painful nerve.
5. Aftercare – The injection site may feel sore for a few days, but most patients return to light activity within 24–48 hours.

Am I a Candidate for RFA?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have chronic back, neck, or joint pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care
  
• Experienced pain relief from a diagnostic nerve block
  
• Want to avoid or delay surgery
  
• Have limited mobility or function due to nerve-related pain

Why Choose Axis Pain and Sports Management?

• Experienced care: Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov is fellowship-trained in interventional pain management.
  
• Precision treatment: Imaging-guided RFA for safety and accuracy.
  
• Minimally invasive focus: Reducing downtime and maximizing outcomes.
• Personalized approach: Every treatment plan is tailored to your condition and goals.