Chronic pain affects millions of people around the world. It drastically alters your daily life, affects your ability to work or conduct daily business, and even your emotional well-being. Therefore, the medical community has made finding therapies for chronic pain a primary goal.
However, all hope is not lost. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) are two medical procedures that can help with chronic pain management. Both of these are minimally invasive procedures that don’t require you to go under the knife. So which treatment is right for you? Let’s dive in to find out.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a pain management procedure that uses radio waves to heat up targeted nerves that transmit pain messages to the brain. RFA breaks down such nerve fibres, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain and thus providing long-term relief to patients.
This technique works particularly well with arthritis, backache, chronic lower back pain, and neck pain. Unlike conservative approaches that may only offer temporary respite, RFA seeks to ensure consistent relief and allow you to get back to living life without pain and constant worry.
What is Pulsed Radiofrequency?
Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is also used to treat pain and discomfort. While RFA uses radio waves to heat up targeted nerves that transmit pain messages to the brain, PRF does things differently. With PRF, your pain specialist uses electromagnetic pulses to reduce pain by altering the transmission of pain signals.
This pain management procedure can be used to treat cancer pain, complex regional pain syndrome, headaches and migraines.
Benefits of Radiofrequency and Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency and pulsed radiofrequency ablation provide pain relief that lasts for a long time. Some patients may experience significant relief from the procedure lasting for months or even years later. Here are more benefits RFA and PRF can provide:
Effective Pain Relief
RFA and PRF both substantially reduce pain by interrupting certain nerves responsible for chronic pain disorders. This method also ensures that the cause of pain is dealt with directly.
Quick Recovery
Given the minimally invasive nature of these treatments, you can expect a much faster recovery time with both RFA and PRF. Patients often feel little discomfort after going through the procedures and can return to their usual activities very soon. This quick healing process is essential, especially if you have a busy schedule.
Reduced Dependence on Pain Medications
Due to sustained relief from both PRF and RFA, many patients find themselves using fewer analgesics/medications than before.
Which Should You Choose?
Selecting between RFA and PRF depends on several factors. The nature of the pain is important; RFA is ideal for patients who need immediate and long-lasting relief, while PRF is suitable for those requiring a less aggressive approach.
Final Thoughts
Are you in chronic pain? Do you want a less invasive pain procedure to get back to a life without pain and discomfort? Then either radiofrequency ablation or pulsed radiofrequency are right for you. The goal of both procedures is clear; to give you relief from chronic pain and enhance your quality of life; what’s even better is both pain management procedures are minimally invasive.
But do you have a problem picking the right treatment? Total Pain Specialist Clinic can help. As your pain specialist, we will assess your condition and suggest the best possible treatment for you. For further information, please get in touch with us today.
Total Pain Specialist