Radiofrequency Ablation: A Drug-Free Solution for Chronic Back Pain

It is estimated that 80% of adults experience back pain at some time. From small aches and pains to moderate injuries, most back pain responds to over-the-counter medications for relief and goes away on its own after a few days. However, chronic back pain is more serious pain that lasts for 12 months or longer.

With three locations in the Houston area, The Spine and Sports Center is the place to go for pain management. Dr. Benoy Benny is a sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist who treats many kinds of pain, including chronic back pain. Dr. Benny and his staff provide you with the latest pain management treatments in a compassionate and supportive environment. 

What causes chronic back pain?

Chronic back pain can be caused by many different factors, including:

• Arthritis 
• Osteoporosis
• Strained muscle or ligament
• Ruptured or bulging disks in spine
• Skeletal problems

Though there are a number of treatments available, we believe that radiofrequency ablation is the best option for your chronic back pain.

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation is a high-tech, minimally invasive treatment for pain. It uses radio waves to affect your nerve tissue and reduce pain. More than 70% of people who receive radiofrequency ablation have their pain reduced. Dr. Benny performs this treatment as a short outpatient procedure in our office. 

How does it work?

Once Dr. Benny screens you and determines that the radiofrequency ablation treatment is appropriate for you, he gives you instructions to follow before the day of your procedure. During your appointment, he ensures you are comfortable before giving you the option of a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t experience any discomfort. Then, Dr. Benny inserts a needle into the treatment location and attaches an electrode to the needle

To complete the treatment, Dr. Benny sends a gentle electrical current through the needle and into your body. This radiofrequency current heats up your nerve tissue, causing it to stop sending signals to your brain. Your pain is decreased, providing you with relief from your condition and allowing you to get back to living your life.

Are there side effects from radiofrequency ablation?

The side effects from radiofrequency ablation treatment are usually quite mild. You may experience swelling or bruising at the treatment site. Typically, after a few days of rest, the swelling will go away and any bruising will heal. 

Your back is an essential part of your body, and back pain can make it very difficult for you to do the things you want and need to do. Chronic back pain, which lasts over 12 weeks, can be especially debilitating. Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment for pain that allows you to get moving again.

To set up an appointment with Dr. Benny at any of the three Houston area locations of The Spine and Sports Center, call us, or use our online booking tool any time.