Pulsed Radiofrequency

Pulsed radiofrequency is a treatment that uses radio waves to control pain. It is similar to radiofrequency denervation, but whereas denervation aims to completely deactivate nerves through applying a very high heat, pulsed radiofrequency applies heat intermittently, in pulses.  This means the heat is less and therefore non-destructive to the nerve. The aim of pulsed radiofrequency is to reset, or modulate, dysfunctional nerves without damaging them, resulting in pain relief by preventing pain signals from reaching the spinal cord.

When is pulsed radiofrequency usually advised?

Pulsed radiofrequency may be advised when injection treatments you have had for your pain haven’t worked, or have only worked for a very limited time. It can beneficial for a variety of chronic pain conditions, especially peripheral nerve pain. It can also be used to manage cervical radicular pain, sacroiliac joint pain, facet arthropathy, chronic shoulder pain, myofascial pain, radicular pain, groin pain, facial pain and many more conditions.

How is this procedure performed?

Before the procedure you will also be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Heat produced by radio waves is passed through a needle, causing localised heating in a specific area. A steroid injection is also given to help relieve short term pain following the procedure and to reduce the risk of any inflammation at the injection site.

The procedure will take about 20 minutes and you will be able to go home shortly afterwards.

What results can I expect?

Pulsed radiofrequency treatment can provide pain relief for between three and 18 months but everyone experiences the effects in a different way.

Need help?

At One Hatfield Hospital in Hertfordshire, we can book you in to see specialist pain management consultant, usually within 48 hours, for an initial consultation.

You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your Pulsed Radiofrequency treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Hatfield

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in December 2017
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

Contact us and find out more

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford, North London, Welwyn or Bedfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.