- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces joint pain by interrupting the nerves that carry pain signals to the brain.
- It treats pain signals rather than the underlying joint problem, which is why it’s used to manage pain rather than cure the condition.
- It may suit patients with hip or knee pain who aren’t suitable for, or wish to avoid, more invasive surgery, or who have ongoing pain after a joint replacement.
- It is usually a day procedure, taking around 20 to 45 minutes, with full pain relief typically developing over four to six weeks.
- Pain relief is not necessarily permanent and can return over time, often after a couple of years, at which point the procedure may be repeated.
Radiofrequency ablation (RF or RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce joint pain by interrupting the nerves that carry pain signals from the joint to the brain. It can be an option for certain patients with hip or knee pain who are not suitable for, or wish to avoid, more invasive surgery, or who have ongoing pain after a joint replacement.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation targets the small sensory nerve fibres that transmit pain from a joint. Using fine needles inserted around the joint under X-ray guidance, the targeted nerves are heated with radiofrequency energy so that they stop carrying pain signals. Because these particular nerves supply sensation only, targeting them is aimed at reducing pain without affecting the movement or strength of the joint. It does not affect how you feel your skin or the overlying tissues.
It’s important to understand that RFA treats the pain signals rather than the underlying joint problem itself. This shapes both who it suits and what to expect from it, as confirmed by independent clinical evidence reviews.
What Conditions Can It Treat?
RFA may be considered for hip or knee pain due to arthritis or other causes, particularly where the problem is either not severe enough to warrant surgery, or where pain persists after surgery.
| Joint | Situation Where RFA May Be Used |
|---|---|
| Knee | Ongoing knee pain after a knee replacement. |
| Knee | Knee pain or arthritis not severe enough to warrant a knee replacement. |
| Hip | Ongoing hip pain after a hip replacement. |
| Hip | Hip pain due to arthritis or other causes not severe enough for surgery. |
Whether RFA is appropriate for you depends on the cause of your pain and your individual circumstances, which is why an assessment is needed first.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is carried out under anaesthesia. Fine needles are inserted into specific areas around the joint under X-ray guidance to locate the nerves that supply it. These nerves are first confirmed by passing a small electrical signal through the needle. Once the correct targets are identified, radiofrequency energy is used to heat and interrupt them, stopping them from sending pain signals. The procedure typically takes in the region of 20 to 45 minutes.
Recovery and Aftercare
RFA is usually a day procedure, so you can normally go home the same day. Small waterproof dressings cover the needle entry sites. Some discomfort afterwards is normal, and you will be given pain relief to take home. Many patients are able to return to driving within a couple of days, though you should follow the specific advice given to you.
The pain-relieving effect is not immediate; it typically builds over around four to six weeks to reach its full effect.
How Effective Is It, and How Long Does It Last?
RFA provides meaningful pain relief for many patients, though the degree of relief varies from person to person. Because it interrupts pain signals rather than treating the underlying joint problem, the effect is not necessarily permanent: pain can return over time (often after a couple of years) as the nerves recover, and the procedure may then be repeated or other treatment considered. Your specialist can discuss what level of benefit and duration is realistic in your situation.
Cost
The cost of radiofrequency ablation is often covered by private health insurance, though a gap fee may apply depending on your policy. It’s worth confirming the details of your cover and any out-of-pocket cost in advance. If you’d like to discuss whether RFA may be suitable for you, contact the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does radiofrequency ablation cure my arthritis?
No. RFA interrupts the nerves carrying pain signals; it does not treat the underlying joint problem. This is why it is used to manage pain rather than to cure the condition, and why the effect can wear off over time.
How long does the pain relief last?
This varies between individuals. Because the treated nerves can recover over time, pain may return after a period (often a couple of years), at which point the procedure may be repeated or other options considered. Your specialist can advise what is realistic for you.
When will I feel the benefit?
The full effect usually develops gradually over around four to six weeks rather than immediately after the procedure.
Is it a day procedure?
Yes, RFA is normally performed as a day procedure, with most patients going home the same day and able to return to driving within a couple of days, following the specific advice they are given.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended as general patient education and does not constitute medical advice. Whether radiofrequency ablation is suitable, and what results and duration of relief are realistic, depend on your individual circumstances. Please arrange a consultation for an assessment tailored to you.
