How effective is radiofrequency ablation for facet joint syndrome?

Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine. When their pain-sensitive nerve supply is identified as a contributor, radiofrequency ablation applies controlled heat near those nerves to reduce pain signalling. The procedure does not repair arthritis, restore spinal movement, or treat every source of back pain. Relief may take time to settle and can change as nerve signalling returns.

A diagnosis is based on the pattern of pain, physical examination, and sometimes a carefully targeted diagnostic injection. Symptoms that travel with marked weakness or are driven by nerve-root compression may need a different assessment. Strength, mobility, sleep, and daily activity are useful outcomes to track alongside pain.

Discuss whether your symptoms fit facet joint pain and what the diagnostic step showed. Ask about medicines, preparation, transport, temporary activity limits, and how physiotherapy will restart. Build activity gradually rather than testing the back with heavy lifting as soon as pain improves. Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicines, infection, or new neurological symptoms before the procedure.

Get urgent help for new bladder or bowel problems, numbness in the saddle area, or sudden or progressive leg or arm weakness. Contact the treating service promptly for fever, spreading redness, drainage, severe swelling, or pain that escalates after the procedure. Back or neck pain after major trauma also warrants assessment, particularly when movement or strength changes.

What evidence points to the facet joints as the pain source? Which movement or function should improve? What alternatives are appropriate? How long should I modify activity, and which exercises will protect my progress? What symptoms would mean the treatment is not addressing the right problem?