Radiofrequency Treatment (RF), popularly known as “nerve burning therapy”, is a method with almost no side effects. Even in cases such as low back, mid-back and neck pain, or knee joint diseases for which surgery has already been recommended, RF treatment can offer patients the chance to regain their health without an operation. It does not require general anesthesia, is performed as an outpatient, and takes approximately 20 minutes. Its effectiveness can be increased by combining it with other treatments such as minor ozone therapy, steroid cocktails, neural therapy and hilterapy.
The radiofrequency method
In patients with low back, mid-back or neck problems, a radiofrequency current of 60 to 80 degrees Celsius is applied to the target area to create controlled tissue damage. Its mechanism is based on blocking the nerves located around the facet joints that carry pain signals in the spinal cord. In this way, the vicious cycle of pain is broken. This is the classical (thermal) technique, applied as a continuous current.
In pulsed radiofrequency treatment, the current is delivered intermittently and a relatively low temperature of about 42 degrees Celsius is used. For those who ask, “How can pulsed radiofrequency be effective at such a low temperature?”, the answer is this: thanks to its modulatory effect on the nerves, this method can relieve pain for a long time, and often in a lasting way. Depending on the patient’s condition, we especially prefer it for knee problems (genicular denervation).
When Does Radiofrequency Treatment Start to Work?
The RF method usually begins to show its effect within a few days. Most of our patients report feeling better within about one week. However, as with any treatment, the outcome of radiofrequency therapy can vary depending on factors such as the underlying spinal pathology, body weight, age, and accompanying diseases. If the patient’s complaints persist over time, radiofrequency treatment can be repeated a second time.