Facet Ablation / Rhizotomy
Our Facet Joint Ablation and Rhizotomy Procedures
Arthritic pain can feel awful and be downright debilitating, especially when felt in the knees, neck, or lower back. You don’t have to live with the acute pain forever. Thanks to the innovative and minimally invasive technique of facet ablation, also known as rhizotomy, you can relieve your unwanted symptoms and live your life to the fullest. For unmatched facet ablation and rhizotomy treatment in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, visit Pain & Spine Physicians. We offer countless cutting-edge pain management services including facet joint ablation performed by an experienced and passionate team dedicated to helping you feel your best.
What Is Facet Ablation?
Facet joints in the spine are highly susceptible to arthritis and simple wear and tear. Facet ablation treatment is an effective and evidence-based pain management procedure that reverses the symptoms of arthritis. Facet ablation uses radio waves powered by electric probes to heat the nerve tissues in your back, easing your pain for six months to one year. As a minimally-invasive technique, there are little to no risks involved.
What Is a Rhizotomy?
The rhizotomy procedure, similar to facet ablation pain management, soothes arthritis pain by placing an electric probe in your targeted pain area. However, rhizotomy is more effective when used in the knee and hip joints rather than the spine. The intercooled probe disables the nerves outside the joint to block your brain’s reception to the pain. Like facet ablation, rhizotomy lasts from six months to a year, after which you can call us for a follow-up appointment.
Is Facet Ablation or Rhizotomy Right for Me?
If you’re experiencing a constant ache in your spine that worsens with prolonged periods of sitting or standing, facet ablation may be just what you need to reverse your pain. This pain treatment is equally ideal for people with spasticity who want more range of motion and flexibility. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will work with you to determine a proper treatment plan according to your condition, medical history, and lifestyle.
What Can I Expect From Facet Ablation Treatment?
Electric probes may sound intimidating, but the process is anything but. Our trained physicians will anesthetize you pre-procedure so you won’t feel a thing. The entire session takes about 15 minutes and can be completed in about six sessions. You can expect instant relief after a session of facet ablation or rhizotomy. While your nerves will be temporarily numbed, the treatment is not permanent, so it needs to be repeated semi-annually or annually. Sometimes muscle stiffness occurs as a side effect but typically passes within a few days.
Get Relief Today at Pain & Spine Physicians
Let us be your trusted pain specialists here at Pain & Spine Physicians. We feature state-of-the-art locations across North Texas, including Flour Mound, Frisco, Dallas, Southlake, and McKinney. All of our first-rate comprehensive procedures are performed by board-certified doctors and customized to your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more!