Facet Arthropathy, also known as facet joint syndrome, is a degenerative condition affecting the small joints between vertebrae. It leads to chronic pain in the back or neck, often mistaken for common spinal issues. While surgery may be a last resort, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is emerging as a highly effective non-surgical treatment that provides long-lasting relief.
What Is Facet Arthropathy?
Facet joints are the small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae. When these joints wear down due to aging, injury, or arthritis, they become inflamed, resulting in facet arthropathy.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Persistent neck or lower back pain
- Pain aggravated by twisting or arching the spine
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
- Referred pain in the buttocks, hips, or shoulders
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the nerves transmitting pain from the affected facet joints. By using controlled radio waves, the nerves are heated and deactivated, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
How the Procedure Works:
- A diagnostic nerve block is performed first to confirm the source of the pain.
- If the block provides relief, RFA is scheduled.
- Under local anesthesia and imaging guidance, a special needle is inserted near the irritated nerve.
- Radiofrequency energy is applied to disable the pain-causing nerve.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation for Facet Arthropathy
- Non-surgical and minimally invasive
- Minimal recovery time
- Long-lasting pain relief (6–18 months)
- Improved mobility and quality of life
- Reduces or eliminates the need for pain medications
Patients often resume light activities within a day and experience significant relief within a few weeks.
Why Choose Radiofrequency Ablation in Kolkata?
In Kolkata, pain management is advancing rapidly with access to cutting-edge techniques like RFA. Leading pain consultant doctors in Kolkata offer customized care for facet joint pain. One such expert is Dr. Krishna Poddar, a renowned specialist known for her patient-focused approach and minimally invasive solutions.
Why Dr. Krishna Poddar?
- Extensive experience in interventional pain management
- Expertise in spinal conditions including facet arthropathy
- High success rate with RFA and other non-surgical methods
- Compassionate care tailored to individual needs
With her modern approach, Dr. Krishna Poddar has helped numerous patients avoid surgery and reclaim a pain-free life.
Is RFA Right for You?
You may be a candidate for RFA if:
- You have chronic neck or back pain due to facet joint arthritis
- Conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy have failed
- You’ve responded positively to a diagnostic nerve block
- You want a non-surgical option with lasting results
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Mild soreness at the injection site
- Temporary numbness or discomfort
- Gradual pain relief over 1–3 weeks
- Return to normal activities within a day or two
Your pain consultant will provide post-procedure instructions, including stretching exercises and activity guidelines to support recovery.
Conclusion: Choose Non-Surgical Relief with Expert Care
Radiofrequency Ablation offers new hope for those suffering from chronic facet joint pain. Safe, effective, and minimally invasive, RFA can restore comfort and function without the need for surgery. When managed by top pain consultant doctors in Kolkata like Dr. Krishna Poddar, this treatment can be a life-changing solution.