Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

Nerve Ablation Specialist


 

Q & A

WHAT IS NERVE ABLATION THERAPY?

Nerve ablation, or radiofrequency ablation (RFA), is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to create heat and destroy the end of small nerves that irritate your facet joints. Dr. Glaser delivers radiofrequency waves via needle probe without damaging your surrounding tissue or nerve ganglia.

If your pain responds well to facet block injections, this will likely be an effective treatment for you. It can treat many different types of chronic pain, such as:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Joint degeneration (from arthritis)

The pain-relieving effects of this procedure can last for 6-12 months and, in some cases, relief can last for years. It’s a safe and effective way to treat painful conditions.

There are typically few side effects associated with nerve ablation therapy, and they usually resolve themselves within a few days.

HOW DOES NERVE ABLATION WORK?

First, Dr. Glaser uses a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. He then uses imaging technology, such as an X-ray, to direct a needle that delivers radiofrequency along your targeted nerves.

Dr. Glaser uses a radiofrequency generator with patented technology developed by Stryker®. It emits safe, controlled lesions that heat targeted nerve tissue. A small amount of electrical current passes through each needle to correctly position it, temporarily simulating pain.

The targeted nerves are numbed to prevent further discomfort. Dr. Glaser repeats this process for 1-5 other nerves. The procedure typically takes about one hour at the most.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER NERVE ABLATION?

More likely than not, you can return to your daily routine right after the procedure. However, Dr. Glaser recommends resting for at least a couple days. Your neck or back, depending on your condition and which area was treated, will be sore over the next few weeks following treatment.

That pain is caused by muscle spasms and irritability while the targeted nerve tissue is being killed off from the radiofrequency energy, the process lasting about 7-21 days.

Dr. Glaser may then prescribe medication to treat the expected pain, which will come and go and feel like a sunburn on your skin. In some cases, your back or neck may feel weak for a few weeks after the procedure.

Instead of resorting to surgery, contact Dr. Glaser at Glaser Pain Relief Center to learn about nerve ablation therapy. Call or click ‘Book Online’ today.


GLASER PAIN RELIEF CENTER

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST LOCATED IN ENCINO, CA

Problematic nerve roots coming from your spinal cord can cause all kinds of issues. At Glaser Pain Relief Center in Encino, California, top-ranked interventional pain management specialist, Jeffrey B. Glaser, MD, provides nerve ablation therapy using radiofrequency energy to treat a variety of ailments that cause spinal problems. If you’re a good candidate, Dr. Glaser will help you prepare and monitor your recovery closely. If you experience neck pain, back pain, and it’s difficult to sit, walk, or turn your neck, call or schedule an appointment online to learn more about nerve ablation therapy.

Location

Glaser Pain Relief Center
16311 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 518
San Fernando Valley

Encino, CA 91436
Phone: 818-501-7246
Fax: 818-501-7247

Office Hours

Get in touch

818-501-7246