What to expect from radiofrequency ablation for lumbar spondylosis

Lumbar spondylosis describes wear-related changes in the lower spine. When pain is traced to joints that send signals through small medial branch nerves, radiofrequency ablation can use a probe to heat selected nerves under imaging guidance. Local anaesthetic may numb the skin and deeper tissues during the procedure.

Ablation addresses pain signalling from the chosen target, not every change seen on a scan. The back may be sore afterward, and the effect is assessed alongside your movement and daily function rather than by the scan alone.

Give the team a complete medication list and mention blood thinners, infection, allergies, pregnancy, or prior problems with sedation. Follow instructions about food, drink and medicines. Arrange transport if medication used during the visit could affect alertness.

Follow dressing care instructions and keep early activity light. Short walks may be encouraged, while lifting, repeated bending and strenuous exercise are added later. A physiotherapist can help progress hip, trunk and lower-back strength without provoking a flare.

Contact the clinic if the site becomes hot, red, swollen or starts draining, or if pain progressively worsens. Seek urgent care for new leg weakness, difficulty standing or walking, numbness around the groin, or new loss of bladder or bowel control.

Ask whether your pain pattern fits a facet-related source, which nerves will be treated, how to manage medicines, when to restart work or exercise, and how the rehabilitation plan will support your lower back.