Radiofrequency Ablation for Arthritis Pain: A Comprehensive Treatment Guide
By Dr. Jackie Weisbein, DO, Double Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine
Quick Insights
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled thermal energy to interrupt pain signals from arthritic joints. Clinical studies demonstrate that RFA can significantly reduce chronic joint pain and improve functional mobility in patients who haven't responded adequately to conservative treatments like medications or steroid injections. This outpatient procedure offers a safe, evidence-based option for managing persistent arthritis symptoms.
Key Takeaways
- Studies indicate radiofrequency ablation can reduce arthritis pain and improve mobility for many who’ve tried other therapies.
- The procedure is generally well-tolerated and typically performed on an outpatient basis.
- Patients commonly seek RFA for knee, hip, and spine arthritis relief.
- Radiofrequency ablation may help restore activity and confidence when chronic pain keeps you from everyday life.
Why It Matters
Radiofrequency ablation offers a meaningful step forward for people like you—exhausted by relentless joint pain and frustrated at lost independence. Research suggests RFA can safely address pain at its source, helping patients regain movement and get back to living life, not just managing discomfort.
Introduction
If you’re searching for radiofrequency ablation, you probably know what it’s like to have arthritis pain rob you of simple joys—like walking the dog or making it through the grocery store. As a double board-certified pain specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, and President of the Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management, I’ve spent my career guiding patients past false promises toward real relief. Radiofrequency ablation uses targeted heat energy to disrupt nerves responsible for chronic joint pain, offering a minimally invasive path to reclaiming mobility.
Why does this matter so much? Arthritis can make everyday activities exhausting and discouraging. When medications and injections don’t work, it’s easy to lose hope. Yet, studies suggest nerve ablation may reduce pain and restore movement for many with osteoarthritis; you can read a recent review supporting these outcomes here.
If you’re tired of quick fixes and want a physician who listens, understands, and offers advanced, personalized solutions—this may be your chance to get your life back.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation? (Science & Safety)
Radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, is a minimally invasive procedure where I use targeted heat energy to disrupt nerves that send pain signals from arthritic joints. In my clinic, I guide a small needle to the affected nerves—often in the knee, hip, or spine—using X-ray or ultrasound for precision. The goal is to “turn down” the pain without affecting your ability to move.
For patients like Mark from Vallejo, who’ve tried everything from medications to injections with little relief, understanding the science behind RFA can be reassuring. Studies suggest that radiofrequency ablation is generally well-tolerated and offers a favorable safety profile, with most patients able to go home the same day. I always discuss the latest research and safety data, and I encourage patients to review resources from trusted local hospitals like Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center for more on outpatient pain procedures.
As a pain management specialist trained in advanced nerve procedures, I want you to know that one of the most important factors for safety is selecting the right candidate and using meticulous image-guided technique. In real-world practice, I see that careful planning and communication before the procedure help minimize any surprises and make the overall experience much smoother for my patients—especially those who are nervous about trying yet another treatment.
How Does RFA Help Arthritis Pain?
When arthritis pain keeps you from walking or enjoying life, it’s often because inflamed joints send constant pain signals to your brain. With radiofrequency ablation, I target the specific nerves responsible for this pain—most commonly the genicular nerves in the knee or medial branches in the spine.
Research indicates that RFA can reduce pain and improve function for many people with osteoarthritis, especially when other treatments haven’t worked. For example, I’ve seen patients from St. Helena and American Canyon who were unable to walk their dogs or stand at work finally regain confidence after RFA.
In my 15 years of practice managing chronic pain long term, I’ve observed that the difference RFA can make often goes beyond what the studies measure—a patient who can stand longer at a family gathering, or get through a shopping trip without needing to sit down constantly. While medical evidence supports its use, it’s these everyday successes that motivate me, knowing I can offer a minimally invasive option when you feel stuck between “band-aid” treatments and major surgery.
It’s important to know that while studies suggest RFA is effective for many, results can vary. I always set realistic expectations and explain that RFA is not a cure, but it can be a powerful tool to help you move again. If you’re tired of “band-aid” solutions, this may be the next step worth considering. For more on the science, you can read a recent review here.
Who is a Candidate for RFA?
I often see patients who are frustrated after trying medications, physical therapy, and even surgery without lasting relief. If you have chronic joint pain—especially in the knee, hip, or spine—that hasn’t improved with conservative treatments, you may be a candidate for RFA.
As a fellowship-trained pain physician, I’ve found that people who have already tried multiple therapies—but still want to remain active—often do best with RFA. Many of my patients come in feeling like “nothing ever works for me,” and it’s important to validate that frustration. I carefully review your medical history, imaging, and previous treatments to ensure this is the right fit. Safety is always my top priority, especially for older adults like George from rural Sonoma County, who worry about recovery time and risks.
I also coordinate with local resources, such as Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, to ensure comprehensive care if you have complex health needs. In my practice, I’ve found that patients who are motivated to regain function and have realistic expectations tend to do best with RFA.
What Sets Dr. Weisbein’s Practice Apart in Advanced Pain Care?
What makes my approach different is the level of personalized, boutique care I provide at Napa Valley Orthopaedic Medical Group. I’m double board-certified and have performed thousands of advanced pain procedures, including RFA, for patients from all over the North Bay—many of whom travel from places like Fairfield, Marin, and Vallejo because they want a physician who listens and truly understands their journey.
As someone who trains other doctors in these advanced procedures, I believe that the right combination of expertise, compassion, and patient education is what changes outcomes. While technology matters, so does the trust you build with your doctor. I see many patients who are skeptical after years of unhelpful treatments, and it’s my role to bridge the gap between evidence-based medicine and care that truly addresses your life and your goals here in Napa Valley.
For patients like Mark, who are skeptical after years of failed treatments, I offer more than just a procedure—I offer a partnership. My team and I support you with holistic strategies, including exercise, wellness, and ergonomic tools, not just injections or pills. I also stay current with the latest research and teach other physicians nationwide, so you can trust you’re getting the most up-to-date care.
If you’re looking for a clinic that treats you like a person, not a number, and values your goals, you’ll find that here. You can learn more about my practice philosophy and advanced options by visiting Napa Valley Orthopaedic Medical Group.
What to Expect: The RFA Experience in Napa, CA
When you come to my clinic for radiofrequency ablation, I make sure you know exactly what to expect. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and most patients are in and out within a few hours. I use real-time imaging to guide the needle, so accuracy and safety are always top of mind.
For someone like George, who’s worried about being “laid up for weeks,” I explain that most people return to light activity within a day or two. There may be some soreness at the treatment site, but serious complications are rare. I always review your medications and health history to minimize risks, and I’m available for follow-up if you have any concerns.
Many of my patients appreciate the convenience of having advanced pain care, without needing to travel to San Francisco or Sacramento. If you’re curious about the process, you can find more details on outpatient pain procedures at Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center.
Patient Stories & Real Outcomes
I’ve had the privilege of helping patients from all over Napa Valley and the North Bay reclaim their lives with RFA. One patient from American Canyon, after years of failed injections and physical therapy, was finally able to walk her dog again without constant pain. Another, from St. Helena, returned to gardening and family outings after struggling to stand for more than 10 minutes.
Studies suggest that most people experience meaningful pain relief and improved mobility after RFA, though individual results can vary. When I look at these research statistics alongside my patient outcomes, it reinforces why I’m passionate about this treatment: seeing people who felt stuck and hopeless take real steps forward in their daily lives—even small wins, like walking to the mailbox or spending more active time with family members—means so much, both to my patients and to me.
If you’re skeptical, you’re not alone. Many of my patients arrive feeling defeated, but leave with renewed hope. For more on real-world outcomes, you can review patient-reported data here, or read verified patient testimonials to see what others have experienced.
Voices from Our Community
As someone who’s dedicated my career to restoring function and hope for people in Napa Valley and the North Bay, feedback like this truly resonates with me. My approach—whether it’s radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, or advanced options like Intracept and SI-BONE fusion—always centers on precision, efficiency, and genuine care. I believe that being double board-certified and fellowship-trained means more than just credentials; it’s about building trust and delivering boutique, patient-centered care for every person who walks through our doors. One Google review shared a glimpse of this experience:
Google Review Spotlight
Karla: Dr Weisbein knows exactly where to go to inject my crooked back. Very efficient and easy experience! thank you! View Review
Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation offers a minimally invasive, evidence-based option for those whose arthritis pain has made walking or daily activities feel impossible. Studies suggest that RFA can reduce pain and improve mobility for many patients—even when medications, injections, or physical therapy haven’t worked. In my clinic, I see firsthand how this treatment can help people from Vallejo, St. Helena, and beyond reclaim their independence.
To conclude, you don’t have to settle for a life defined by pain or frustration. As a double board-certified physician in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, and President of Women Innovators in Pain Management, I’m committed to providing advanced, personalized care right here in Napa Valley. Schedule your consultation today to explore personalized pain management options.
This article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
