Spinal Radiofrequency Ablation
Non-surgical radiofrequency treatment for herniated discs and back pain
Spinal Radiofrequency Ablation
Book Your ConsultationSpinal radiofrequency ablation is one of the leading non-surgical interventional pain treatments. It targets the nerves responsible for carrying pain signals from the injured area to the brain and temporarily disables them, without affecting the nerve’s other motor or sensory functions.
Many patients turn to it after suffering from chronic back pain for long periods with little relief from painkillers or physical therapy alone, viewing it as an effective, graduated step before considering any open surgery.
The clinic’s treatment philosophy favors trying the least invasive options first, moving to more invasive techniques only when truly needed - which makes radiofrequency ablation a balanced middle ground between effective results and procedural safety.
Every session follows the highest standards of sterilization and safety, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience for each patient from start to full recovery.
Common Causes
- A herniated disc pressing on the nerves surrounding the spine
- Gradual wear of the vertebrae and small facet joints with age
- Repeated strain on the spine from lifting heavy weights or poor sitting posture
- Chronic inflammation in the small facet joints around the spine
- Weak back-supporting muscles from prolonged inactivity
- Low physical activity and generally weak muscles supporting the spine
Symptoms
- Persistent lower back pain that worsens with movement or standing for long periods
- Noticeable stiffness in the spine, especially on waking up
- Pain sometimes radiating to the hip or upper leg
- Declining response to regular oral painkillers over time
- Difficulty performing simple daily activities like bending or lifting
- General fatigue from the body’s attempt to compensate for ongoing pain
Experiencing these symptoms?
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How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis relies on a precise clinical exam to pinpoint the source of pain and how it affects spinal movement, along with a CT scan or MRI to determine the exact location of the herniation or wear.
In some cases, a small diagnostic injection is used under imaging guidance to confirm that the targeted nerve is the true source of pain - an important step that improves the accuracy of the radiofrequency target later on.
Treatment Steps
After confirming the diagnosis, the targeted nerve’s position is precisely located using image-guided equipment, ensuring the needle reaches exactly the right spot without harming surrounding tissue.
Radiofrequency waves are directed at the nerve through a very fine needle, and the resulting heat suppresses the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals for a relatively long period.
A single session usually takes less than an hour and is performed entirely under local anesthesia, with no need for general anesthesia or a hospital stay.
The patient is allowed to go home the same day, and can resume most light daily activities within just a few days of the session.
A follow-up is scheduled weeks after the procedure to assess the degree of improvement and determine whether an additional session or another treatment step is needed.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
This treatment suits those with chronic back pain that hasn’t responded adequately to medication or regular physical therapy sessions, and who wish to avoid open surgery as much as possible.
It also benefits patients for whom surgery isn’t advisable for other health reasons, such as advanced age or chronic conditions that increase the risks of general anesthesia and traditional surgery.
The doctor determines the procedure’s suitability for each case after a comprehensive assessment of symptoms, medical history, and imaging results, since it isn’t the best fit for every type of back pain.
Aftercare Tips
- Avoid lifting heavy weights or sudden bending during the first few days after the session
- Follow a simple physical therapy program to gradually strengthen the supporting back muscles
- Maintain correct sitting and sleeping posture to reduce pressure on the spine
- Keep up regular follow-up visits with the doctor to assess the long-term durability of results
Why Choose Dr. Hesham Ziada?
Dr. Hesham Ziada brings over fifteen years of experience in interventional pain management. He is a faculty member at Cairo University’s Faculty of Medicine and holds a doctorate specialized in pain management from Kasr Al Ainy, ensuring the latest global protocols are followed precisely and safely in every radiofrequency procedure.
All sessions take place in clinics equipped with the latest imaging-guidance technology, with a complete medical team following the patient from diagnosis through post-treatment care, across multiple easily accessible locations in Greater Cairo.
Dr. Hesham Ziada’s clinics adhere to international safety standards in all interventional pain procedures, providing a comfortable, supportive environment that helps patients go through their treatment journey with confidence and peace of mind.
A Real Patient Experience
I suffered from severe back pain for several years, and after radiofrequency sessions with Dr. Hesham I improved tremendously. I recommend him to everyone.
Mohamed Abdelrahman
Lumbar Disc Herniation
Patient Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the procedure painful?
It’s performed under local anesthesia, so most patients feel only mild pressure during the session rather than actual pain.
When do results appear?
Some patients notice improvement within the first few days, while others may need up to two weeks to notice the full difference in pain intensity.
How long do the results last?
It varies from patient to patient, ranging from several months to years depending on the nature of the case and its response to treatment.
Can the session be repeated?
Yes, the session can be repeated if needed if the pain returns after a period of noticeable improvement.
Do I need to stay in the hospital?
No, the procedure is performed in the clinic and the patient goes home the same day.
Does radiofrequency affect normal back movement?
No, it targets only the pain-carrying fibers without affecting normal movement or the spine’s muscular strength.
Experiencing this condition?
Book your consultation now and start your non-surgical treatment journey