PULSED RADIOFREQUENCY TREATMENT

Home / Pulsed Radiofrequency

READY TO GET STARTED?

What is Pulsed Radiofrequency?

Pulsed radiofrequency refers to a technique used for creating a carefully controlled electrical field around an electrode. For its use in treating pain, this electrode is usually built into the shape and size of a needle. It was first used as a pain treatment option in the mid-1990s. This technique is not the same as that used for a radiofrequency ablation procedure. The word “pulsed” means this technique applies energy to the electrode intermittently. This keeps the temperature very low, unlike the higher temperatures required for ablation.

Why is Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment Used to Treat Pain?

Scientific studies have demonstrated that the application of pulsed radiofrequency to certain nerves can block some of their ability to transmit pain. What is known thus far is that when a pulsed radiofrequency electrical field is applied to a nerve, it selectively affects only the portion of the nerve responsible for sending pain signals. Pulsed radiofrequency treatment is most effective at treating difficult types of pain that typically originate from either nerve damage or irritated nerves. In fact, many times, it seems that pulsed radiofrequency can offer additional pain relief even after other treatment options have failed, such as regular epidural injections. It is a valuable option for many patients with chronic nerve-related pain.

What Are the Benefits of Pulsed Radiofrequency?

There are many benefits of pulsed radiofrequency, including:

  • Relief from chronic pain
  • No long-term nerve damage
  • Minimally invasive treatments
  • Long-lasting results
  • No need for medication

Who Is A Good Candidate for Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment?

The best candidates for pulsed radiofrequency treatment at Southwest Spine & Sports are those who have sciatica, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, post-surgical pain, or experience other similar, painful conditions who have not had success with more conservative and conventional methods of pain management. In many cases, pulsed radiofrequency patients will have had prior epidural steroid injections and still experience significant pain. If you have any questions about your eligibility for pulsed radiofrequency treatment for pain, please get in touch with our Scottsdale, AZ team at your earliest convenience and schedule a consultation.

What Happens During the Procedure?

If a pulsed radiofrequency treatment is determined to be appropriate for you, an appointment will be made for you and your doctor at an outpatient injection facility. You may be given the option to receive some light sedation intravenously to help you relax. If sedation is used, you will be monitored closely with a heart rhythm monitor, blood pressure cuff, and blood oxygen sensing device. Local anesthetic will be used before the actual injection. The electrode is placed through the skin in the same way a typical needle would be used. Your doctor uses fluoroscopy (x-ray) to position the electrode close to the affected nerve or nerves as they exit the spine. Once the needle is positioned, a very mild amount of pulsed radiofrequency is applied to make sure the electrode is in the proper position. This may or may not cause a sensation of tingling, buzzing, or vibrating in the distribution of your typical pain. With the electrode in the proper position, the pulsed radiofrequency procedure is performed. Usually, after completion of the stimulation, a small amount of corticosteroid is injected along with local anesthetic to decrease any temporary irritation to the nerve. Then, the electrode is removed and a small bandage is placed over the injection site.

How Can Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment Help?

Scientific studies have demonstrated that the application of pulsed radiofrequency to certain nerves can block some of their ability to transmit pain.

Learn more about the Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment with this informative brochure below!

Can I Receive More Than One Treatment?

Some studies have demonstrated lasting effects beyond one year. The good news is that other studies have demonstrated beneficial effects after repeat pulsed radiofrequency procedures. You and your doctor can determine if any repeat treatments are warranted.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

You will typically be at the procedure center for about 2 hours, which includes time to check-in, preparation for the procedure, and some time spent immediately after the procedure before you are released home. The procedure itself takes approximately 30 minutes. You will need someone to drive you home.

What Are the Risks of This Procedure?

Generally speaking, this procedure is very safe. However, as with any procedure, there are risks, side effects, and the possibility of complications. The most common side effect is pain, which is temporary. There is also occasional bruising or skin discoloration at the injection site. Because the intention is to have the electrode close to the nerve root, this could cause a slight increase in pain with possible symptoms extending into the limb. It is very unlikely, but there could be permanent nerve damage. There is a slight possibility of developing an infection. If this were to occur, it could require the use of antibiotics. Additionally, if the infection were severe, it could require intravenous antibiotics, hospitalization, and possible surgery. Very rare complications may include known problems from repetitive steroid use, reaction to the injected medications causing respiratory or cardiac compromise, as well as seizures. Death is even a possibility, as with any invasive seizure, although this is exceedingly rare. Steroid medications have been associated with certain types of bone damage but this is usually limited to uses of high doses or frequent exposure.

Find Relief From Chronic Pain

If you have problems with pain and are considering pulsed radiofrequency, it is important to meet with a medical professional to assess the risks versus the benefits of this technique. A trusted provider at Southwest Spine and Sports can examine your situation more thoroughly to determine if this procedure is right for your needs. Call our office in Scottsdale, AZ and see why so many people come to us for their health care needs. We look forward to helping you get relief.

Learn more about Pulsed Radiofrequency therapy with this informative brochure below!

Videos

Radiofrequency Neurotomy of the Lumbar Facets

Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy

Pulsed Radiofrequency FAQs

No, most patients don’t find a pulsed radiofrequency treatment painful or uncomfortable. The procedure does involve injections — so you may feel some initial discomfort. The local anesthetic and intravenous sedation are given to make you feel as comfortable as possible. As the electrode is positioned, you may feel some of your typical symptoms. During the application of the pulsed radiofrequency treatment, you may feel some pulsating in your limb or sensory changes in the distribution of your usual pain.

The number of treatments in your personalized program will depend on your health, condition, and treatment goals. During your consultation at Southwest Spine and Sports, we will examine you, go over your medical history, and listen to your concerns to help you create the perfect plan to achieve your goals. After your plan is finalized, we will have an estimated number of sessions. Most patients typically see the best results with a series of treatment sessions.

You may experience numbness or relief from your typical pain for up to six hours after the injection. This is due to the use of the local anesthetic. The beneficial effects of the steroid injection usually begin 2 – 4 days after the injection. Relief from the pulsed radiofrequency treatment may take up to several weeks to demonstrate a full effect, and the onset is usually subtle, becoming progressively better.

During pulsed radiofrequency treatment, a needle electrode is inserted near the affected nerves, and pulsed radiofrequency energy is delivered to modulate pain signals.

Pulsated radiofrequency treatment is considered safe when performed by trained professionals like those at Southwest Spine & Sports. It carries fewer risks compared to continuous RF procedures.

Pain relief can vary among individuals. Some patients may experience immediate relief, while others may notice improvement over several weeks.

Related Conditions

Epidural Steroid
Injections

Joint Injections

Radiofrequency
Treatments

The Discseel®
Procedure

Learn More About Southwest Spine & Sports

Southwest Spine & Sports Reviews

496 Total Reviews  4.9 Average Rating

Review 17

"I went to see Dr. Wolff in April for lower back pain. I have received over the last 8 years numerous cortisone injections as well as RF to alleviate my pain. This treatment was temporary and the pain always returned. A firefighter friend of mine went to see Dr. Wolff and she received PRP treatment for her injury. Dr. Wolff and Carole are such great kind and caring people. Dr. Wolff suggested and explained the treatment and listened to my many questions. Dr. Wolff then injected my back with the PRP and to date I'm 60% better. Today, I am receiving one additional injection to my stubborn S-I joint. Fingers crossed this final one will do the trick. I would recommend Dr. Wolff and his RN Carole to anyone who hasn't had relief from any other treatment for lower back pain."

Becky
Facebook

Review 16

"Dr. WOLFF! We've put so much confidence in him since 2012, both my wife and I, he's never disappointed us. I'm 73, lower back rebuilt three times, wife is 61, migraines and back issues, He's the BEST!"

Archie P
Facebook

Review 15

"Excellent patient care, timely appointment. Professional personnel from taking the appointment to seeing the doctor. Would recommend to friends and family and out-of-state friends as well."

Elaine C
Google

Review 14

"Dr. Wolff was very thorough with my consultation. He explained my options for treatment and made me feel more like a close friend or family member not just a patient. All of the staff I have interacted with have been very helpful and caring. I can’t say enough good things about Callie, she is quick to respond to emails and get me everything to prepare for my Discseel procedure. My procedure went smoothly, Dr Wolff found a tear in my disc which explained my pain being so high. Pre procedure I couldn’t sit at all if I did it would be painful and standing up and walking was difficult. I can sit and eat with my family for the first time in over 8 months I am so thankful for the Discseel® procedure it kept me from having surgery and fusing my lower back."

Rebecca M
Google

Review 13

"The NP Sheila carefully assessed and really listened to my pain problems! And Dr Wolff takes good care to listen, and each procedure has been very helpful. I absolutely refuse to take scheduled drugs/narcotics, and this office has many very helpful options! My pain problems are a work in progress, but I feel we keep moving in the right direction, and very safely! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Southwest Spine & Sports!"

Viva Z
Google

Review 12

"I have been treating with SWSS since 2015. I value their conservative approach and they put the patient's care above everything else. Both Dr. Wolff and Sheila are easy to talk with about my condition and lay out the treatment plan and genuinely care about my long term health. I am thankful to have such a great medical team by my side."

Tony E
Google

Review 11

"I’m very glad I found Southwest Spine & Sports I did a random google search and took a risk based on reviews and was very happy I did. I was experiencing pain and the procedure helped me resolve the pain. I feel like they truly listen and do their best to help with my multitude of spinal issues."

Diana B
Google

Review 10

"Following years troubleshooting chronic back pain with no success, I was introduced to Dr. Wolff who identified my key issues and offered a number of solutions.  After confirming I would be an ideal candidate, I opted for the Discseel® procedure, and, as discussed, my back pain began improving within a matter of weeks.  Six months later, I am pleased with the results while I progress through physical therapy and continue to improve. I am grateful for Dr. Wolff and the staff at Southwest Spine & Sports for helping me work through a serious condition and making the entire process rather painless."

Patient Feedback
D.C.

Review 9

"I am so impressed with the quality of service from the entire team at Southwest Spine and Sports. The sense of urgency and determination to not only make the symptoms better but to resolve the issues. Dr. Wolf is the most compassionate doctor I have ever been privileged to have working in my behalf. I thank everyone at Southwest Spine and Sports for their dedication to their field. I am forever grateful!"

Lois
Google

Review 8

" Dr. Wolff exudes kindness, competency and empathy; top doc."

RANK S
Google

Review 7

" The care that Dr. Wolff and is staff give is the best. They are all there for you knowledgeable helpful. I can’t say enough good things about them. I’ve been going for 10 years and never disappointed. They know what to do in the office and in the surgery room and how to take the best care of you. Thank You So much Dr Wolff ."

Karen D.
Yelp

Review6

“I have suffered with Plantar Fasciitis for 7 years. I have had steriod injections, physical thereby, rest, and a bunch of other treatments. None have worked. That was until I met Dr. Wolff and his team."

D.T.
Google

Review5

“Dr. Wolff is such an amazing provider always compassionate care. I been seeing Dr. Wolff and his team to treat my Chronic Migraines hands down would refer his clinic and Botox method to get your life back. Thank you."

R.V.
Google

Review4

"Sheila at Southwest Spine & Sports makes a “bad thing” a little less miserable. I’ve had disc issues since 2004. I continue to struggle with the best method to manage the pain that is associated with lower back issues."

C.".
Google

Review3

“I have been a patient South West Spine & Sport for 13 years!  Dr. Wolff and Sheila Janisch ANP are amazing. They listen and are always professional. They are on the leading edge with therapies and procedures."

K.D.
Yelp

Review2

"Dear Dr. Wolff, I wanted to thank you for taking care of my frozen shoulder. It has been almost 4 weeks since my injection and I have experienced significant improvement. My day-to-day comfort has improved a lot."

DT
Patient Feedback

Review1

“SW Sports & Spine is a great practice. The staff are friendly, caring, and competent. Dr. Wolff asks questions and listens to your answers. He is able to find the source of your pain, explain what he can do to alleviate it."

Anonymous
Healthgrades

Get In Touch

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.