When Is Radiofrequency Ablation Recommended for Facet Joint Syndrome?

Facet joints sit at the back of the spine and help guide movement. Irritation in these joints can cause pain close to the spine, sometimes with referral into nearby areas. Radiofrequency ablation applies controlled heat to small medial branch nerves that carry pain signals from a selected joint. It does not correct every spinal change and is not designed to treat spinal cord or nerve-root compression. A diagnosis depends on the pattern of pain, examination, and response to targeted diagnostic blocks.

Continue an agreed programme of mobility, strengthening, posture, and activity pacing while the diagnosis is clarified. Record which movements increase symptoms, such as extension, twisting, or prolonged standing, and whether rest changes them. Give the clinician a complete medicine list and mention bleeding problems, infection, or previous reactions to procedures. Discuss expected recovery, driving arrangements, and how you will rebuild normal activity.

Get urgent assessment for new bladder or bowel problems, numbness in the saddle area, rapidly increasing weakness, fever with severe spinal pain, or pain after major trauma. A new progressive neurological symptom should be evaluated before an elective ablation appointment. Contact your clinician if a planned procedure is followed by worsening weakness, spreading numbness, or signs of infection.

Ask: Which facet level is suspected? What did the diagnostic block show? Could hip, disc, or nerve pain explain my symptoms? What are the alternatives? How will physiotherapy and daily activity be managed after treatment?