Radiofrequency ablation, also referred to as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a minimally invasive interventional procedure that uses targeted thermal energy to create a precise lesion on specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. By disrupting the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain, radiofrequency ablation provides longer-lasting relief than injections alone — typically six months to two years or more, depending on the individual patient and the nerves treated. The procedure is most commonly used for chronic facet joint pain in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine and for sacroiliac joint pain, though it is also utilized for genicular nerve ablation in chronic knee pain and in other selected applications. Before performing radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Webb typically conducts one or more diagnostic nerve block procedures to confirm that the targeted nerves are in fact the source of your pain. This diagnostic step is critical because it helps predict which patients are most likely to benefit from the ablation procedure, resulting in higher success rates and more satisfied patients. The procedure itself is performed on an outpatient basis at our affiliated ambulatory surgery center using fluoroscopic guidance for precise needle and electrode placement. Most patients experience some soreness at the treatment site for several days to two weeks following the procedure, after which the full benefit of the ablation typically becomes apparent. Because the treated nerves do regenerate over time, the pain may eventually return, but the procedure can be safely repeated. Radiofrequency ablation represents one of the most effective tools in interventional pain medicine for providing durable, meaningful pain relief while minimizing reliance on oral medications.