Radiofrequency: Innovative Technology in Pain Treatment

Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive technique utilizing heat generated by radio waves to interrupt pain signals, offering prolonged relief for patients with chronic spinal pain.

How Does Radiofrequency Work?

The procedure involves inserting a special needle near the nerve transmitting the pain. Through this needle, radiofrequency waves generate controlled heat (70-80°C) causing a temporary lesion on the nerve, interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

The procedure is performed with fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, ensuring precision and safety.

Indications for Radiofrequency

Lumbar or cervical facet pain (spinal arthritis)
Chronic sacroiliac pain
Lumbar discogenic pain
Occipital neuralgia
Pain after spinal surgery (post-laminectomy syndrome)

Advantages of Radiofrequency

Lasting relief (6 to 12 months or more)
Minimally invasive procedure
Performed on an outpatient basis
Rapid recovery (1-2 days)
Can be repeated when necessary
Reduces need for medications

Legal notice

Invasive or minimally invasive procedures should be indicated on a case-by-case basis after clinical evaluation. Risks, contraindications, and therapeutic alternatives should be discussed in consultation.

Consult a Specialist

Find out if radiofrequency is indicated for your case. Schedule an evaluation with a pain specialist physician.

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Clinical Review

Dr. Cristina Belotserkovets Heinrich

Functional Neurosurgery, Pain, and Acupuncture – CRM 18839/PE · RQE 7825, 11500, 17697

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Clinically Reviewed by:

Dr. Helio Widson Alves Pinheiro

Pain Medicine | Acupuncture

Published on: January 17, 2026

Reviewed on: January 29, 2026

This content is informative and does not replace individual medical evaluation.

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Neurosurgeon with pain medicine and acupuncture credentials, with practice in spine surgery and interventional pain medicine.

Note: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The information is based on scientific evidence and the clinical practice of the Intrador team, but it does not replace individualized medical evaluation. Conduct, indications, and treatments must be defined after medical consultation.

Clinical reviewer: Dr. Helio Widson Alves Pinheiro · Pain Medicine | Acupuncture · CRM/PE 21167 | RQE 2217, 2808

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