How to Tell When You Need Radiofrequency Ablation Vs. Steroid Injections for Pain

Living with chronic pain? Every day can feel like a debilitating experience, impacting quality of life and everyday activities. Today, medical advancements have introduced effective pain management techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and steroid injections. Here’s a closer look at these two treatments, so you can determine what’s best for your situation.

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency ablation relies on heat generated from radio waves to target specific nerves that are causing you pain. This heat “turns off” the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain. One of the best things about this treatment is that it’s non-invasive. The ideal candidates for RFA are:

Patients with chronic joint or spinal pain.
Those who have had successful pain relief from a diagnostic nerve block.
Individuals not responding well to physical therapy or medications.

RFA provides distinct benefits for many patients, like:

Long-lasting pain relief, typically ranging from six to twelve months, and sometimes up to two years.
Quick recovery time with minimal discomfort.
A non-surgical option that can reduce dependence on pain medications.

What Are Steroid Injections?

Steroid injections—or corticosteroid injections—involve injecting a steroid medication near or directly into the pain site. This treatment’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used for joint pain, like arthritis-related pain. Ideal candidates for steroid injection include:

Patients with acute pain due to inflammation, such as arthritis or herniated discs.
Those who experience flare-ups of chronic pain.
Individuals looking for temporary relief to improve mobility and participate in physical therapy.

How can steroid injections help people dealing with chronic pain? The benefits of this treatment include:

Quick relief of pain and reduction of inflammation.
Limited systemic side effects as the steroid is injected directly into the pain site.
Can be a diagnostic tool to identify the pain source.

Deciding Between RFA and Steroid Injections

As you determine which treatment—RFA or steroid injections—is best for your situation, keep these considerations in mind:

Duration of Relief. Looking for long-term pain relief? RFA offers a more prolonged pain relief compared to steroid injections. Steroid injections provide temporary relief, so they’re ideal for managing acute flare-ups or as a step to facilitate physical therapy.
Nature of Pain. RFA is effective for nerve-related chronic pain—especially in the spine or joints. Steroid injections are better used for inflammatory conditions, like arthritis or sciatica.
Recovery and Risks: RFA involves a slightly more complex procedure with a brief recovery period. The risks, although minimal, include nerve damage or infection. Steroid injections have fewer risks, but repeated use can lead to joint damage or decreased immune response.
Personal Health Profile: Your overall health, medical history, and specific condition play a critical role in determining the appropriate treatment. It’s wise to talk with a pain management specialist to evaluate your condition and discuss potential risks and benefits.

Impact Medical Group Is Your Partner in Pain Management

Ready to leave pain in the past? Impact Medical Group of Brandon can help you determine the most appropriate and effective treatment for your pain. The goal is not just to alleviate pain but to improve your overall quality of life. Call us today at (813) 522-8885 to schedule your free medical evaluation.