Treating Back Pain at Its Source
Even if the cause of your back pain cannot be treated right away, there is a method of stopping the pain at its source. Nerve ablation is a safe, non-invasive procedure that temporarily destroys the damaged nerves sending pain signals to the brain.
Nerve ablation is not a complex procedure. In fact, you will be able to return home on the same day of the procedure. The first step is to administer numbing medication to the nerves. If your pain stops when the medication is applied, this confirms that destroying the nerves will most likely deliver the desired results.
During the procedure, you will be awake as a small needle is injected into the painful area and guided toward the nerves using an imaging technique known as fluoroscopy. A current of radiofrequency is then administered through the needle, which heats up and destroys the nerves causing your pain.
Will Nerve Ablation Permanently Fix My Back Pain?
At this time, nerve ablation only offers short-term relief from back pain. For most patients, the nerves grow back within six to eight months, but relief can last longer. Nonetheless, having this extended period of pain relief while we work with you toward a long-term solution is considered worthwhile.