Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy in Louisiana
Cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy uses heat from radio waves to treat painful facet joints in your neck. At LA Pain Doctor, this minimally invasive procedure helps patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA find longer-lasting relief from neck pain that has not improved with medication or physical therapy.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
The facet joints are small joints along the back of your spine that allow your neck to bend and turn. When these joints become worn or irritated from arthritis, injury, or Facet Joint Syndrome, the tiny medial branch nerves that serve them send constant pain signals to the brain. Cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy, also called radiofrequency ablation (RFA), uses precise heat to interrupt those nerves so they can no longer transmit pain.
Because the procedure targets only the nerves that carry pain from the joint, it does not affect muscle strength or sensation in your arms. Many patients enjoy relief that lasts many months, and the procedure can be repeated if pain returns.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a candidate if you have chronic neck pain caused by the facet joints and have not found relief with rest, medication, or therapy. Most patients first receive a diagnostic medial branch block to confirm the facet joints are the source of pain. If the block provides significant temporary relief, radiofrequency neurotomy is often the next step. This treatment can also help some patients with headaches that follow whiplash or neck pain from Whiplash injuries.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- You will lie face down while your provider numbs the skin over the treatment area.
- Using X-ray guidance, a thin needle is placed next to each targeted nerve.
- A mild electrical current confirms correct placement before the nerve is gently heated.
- The procedure usually takes under an hour, and you can go home the same day.
Some soreness at the treatment site is normal for a few days. Relief typically begins within one to three weeks as the treated nerves stop sending pain signals.
Comprehensive Neck Pain Care
Radiofrequency neurotomy is one part of a full approach to neck pain treatment. Depending on your diagnosis, your plan may also include cervical epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, or trigger point injections. Patients with nerve-related arm pain from Cervical Radiculopathy or a Herniated Disc may benefit from a different approach, and our providers will guide you to the right option. Explore more head and neck pain care or our full list of pain management services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy
How long does relief from radiofrequency neurotomy last?
Many patients experience relief for six months to a year or longer. Because nerves can regrow over time, the procedure can be repeated if pain returns.
Is cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy painful?
The skin is numbed before the procedure, and many patients receive light sedation. You may feel pressure or mild discomfort, followed by soreness for a few days.
Do I need a medial branch block first?
Yes. A diagnostic medial branch block helps confirm that the facet joints are causing your pain before radiofrequency treatment is performed.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients return to light activity the next day and resume normal work within a few days, depending on their job.
Will this procedure affect my arm strength or feeling?
No. The procedure targets only the small nerves that carry pain from the facet joints, not the nerves that control arm movement or sensation.
Is radiofrequency neurotomy covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover this procedure when it is medically necessary. Our team will help verify your benefits.
Where is this procedure available?
LA Pain Doctor offers cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy to patients from our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Find Lasting Relief From Neck Pain
If facet joint pain is limiting your life, our team can help. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.