If chronic shoulder pain has been holding you back, Shoulder Articular Branch Cooled RFA offers a state-of-the-art treatment option designed to provide long-lasting relief. This advanced technique is particularly beneficial for those suffering from pain due to arthritis, injuries, or post-surgical complications.
What Is Cooled RFA for Shoulder Articular Branch Nerves?
Cooled RFA is an advanced version of traditional radiofrequency ablation. By using a specialized probe with a cooling mechanism, this technique creates a larger lesion around the targeted articular branch nerves, effectively interrupting pain signals for a longer duration. It is especially effective for chronic shoulder pain caused by osteoarthritis, rotator cuff injuries, or persistent post-surgical pain.
Who Can Benefit from Cooled RFA?
Cooled RFA is ideal for individuals who have experienced temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks and are seeking a longer-term solution. It’s particularly suited for patients who haven’t found success with medications, physical therapy, or steroid injections.
What to Expect During the Procedure?
- The procedure takes about 30–45 minutes, and sedation will be applied to ensure your comfort.
- Using ultrasound and X-ray guidance, the doctor precisely identifies the articular branch nerves around the shoulder.
- A cooled RFA probe is inserted to create a larger and more effective treatment area, disrupting the pain-transmitting nerves.
Cooled RFA vs. Conventional RFA: What’s the Difference?
- Cooled RFA creates a larger treatment area, making it more effective in targeting nerves with complex anatomy, while conventional RFA produces smaller, localized lesions, which may limit its efficacy in some cases.
- Cooled RFA often provides longer-lasting relief compared to conventional RFA, with effects lasting up to 6-24 months.
- Cooled RFA is particularly effective for larger joints like the knee or SI joints, where nerve anatomy can be more complex.
What Results Can You Expect?
- Patients often experience significant pain reduction after the procedure, with relief lasting several months to a year or more.
- Improved shoulder mobility and reduced reliance on medications are common benefits.
What Should You Do After the Procedure?
- Mild soreness at the injection site is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
- Avoid strenuous activity for a short period to allow for recovery.
Why Choose Cooled RFA for Shoulder Pain?
Cooled RFA offers an advanced and effective solution for chronic shoulder pain, providing longer-lasting relief and a larger treatment area compared to conventional RFA. It’s an excellent option for those seeking to restore mobility and quality of life without surgery or long-term reliance on medication.
Compiled by;Rarinthorn Choomsai Na Ayuthaya, M.D. Interventional Pain Specialist
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