Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy

Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to interrupt pain signals from the small nerves supplying the facet joints in the neck. These joints can become painful due to arthritis, injury, or wear and tear over time. By precisely targeting the medial branch nerves, this treatment can significantly reduce chronic neck pain and improve range of motion, helping patients return to normal activities with less discomfort.

Quick Facts

  • Setting: Outpatient, image-guided
  • Time: ~30–45 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local with optional light sedation
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild soreness for several days
  • Duration of relief: Typically 6–12 months, sometimes longer

Who it helps

  • Chronic neck pain due to facet joint arthritis or degeneration
  • Whiplash injury or post-traumatic neck pain
  • Pain worsened by neck movement or prolonged posture
  • Failed relief from medications or physical therapy
  • Patients who experienced temporary benefit from medial branch blocks

How it works

Each facet joint in the spine is connected to tiny sensory nerves called medial branch nerves, which carry pain signals to the brain. During the procedure, your provider uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to place a thin, specialized needle near these nerves. Radiofrequency energy is then applied through the needle, heating the nerve tissue to stop it from transmitting pain. The treatment does not damage the joint or muscles and focuses only on the targeted pain fibers.

What to expect

  • Before: Your provider will review your medical history and confirm candidacy based on diagnostic medial branch block results. You may be asked to stop certain medications before the procedure.
  • During: You’ll lie comfortably on your stomach. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Using imaging, your provider positions a small RF probe next to each targeted nerve and applies brief heat to interrupt pain transmission.
  • After: You’ll rest in recovery for a short time before going home. Mild soreness at the injection site is normal for several days. Pain relief typically begins within 2–4 weeks as the nerves fully deactivate.

Benefits & risks

Benefits:

  • Minimally invasive and outpatient-based
  • Provides longer-lasting relief than diagnostic injections
  • Improves neck function and reduces medication dependence
  • No incision or stitches required

Risks:

  • Temporary numbness or soreness at treatment site
  • Infection or bleeding (rare)
  • Temporary nerve irritation or increased pain before improvement

Is it right for me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Chronic neck pain not relieved by conservative treatments
  • ✅ Confirmed pain relief from prior medial branch diagnostic blocks
  • ✅ No contraindications to outpatient or radiofrequency procedures
  • ✅ Desire to reduce medication use and improve daily function

Alternatives at PCET

FAQs

  • Is this the same as a nerve ablation? Yes—radiofrequency neurotomy and nerve ablation describe the same process of deactivating pain fibers.
  • How long does relief last? Most patients experience 6–12 months of relief, sometimes longer, before nerves regenerate.
  • Will the nerves grow back? The treated nerves may regenerate over time, but the pain often remains improved for several months.
  • Can it be repeated? Yes—if pain returns, the procedure can safely be repeated.
  • Is it covered by insurance? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover this procedure when medical criteria are met.

📞 Call to Schedule

Ready to learn if Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy could help relieve your neck pain? Call (865) 579-0552 to schedule your appointment today.