Radiofrequency Ablation and Medial Branch Block Diagnosis in Napa: Relief for Chronic Pain
By Dr. Jackie Weisbein, DO, Double Board-Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, Fellowship-Trained in Interventional Pain Management
Quick Insights
Radiofrequency ablation in Napa, CA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses thermal energy to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves in the spine or joints. Treatment is typically preceded by medial branch block diagnosis to confirm the pain source and predict treatment response. The procedure may provide pain relief lasting several months to over a year.
Key Takeaways
- Medial branch block diagnosis guides if radiofrequency ablation is right for lasting spine or joint pain relief.
- Studies indicate pain improvement may last up to 12 months for many patients.
- Dr Jackie Weisbein offers services that address pain management, including spine care, in Napa.
- Radiofrequency ablation targets recurring pain for those worn out by short-term fixes.
Why It Matters
Radiofrequency ablation offers hope for people tired of recurring back or neck pain after injections. Current studies suggest this approach may ease symptoms, helping patients in Napa reclaim function and quality of life—not just endure more temporary solutions.
Introduction
If you’re searching for real relief from stubborn back or neck pain, radiofrequency ablation Napa, CA, could be your answer. As a double board-certified pain specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, and a national leader in minimally invasive treatments here in the North Bay, I’ve seen firsthand how this procedure can help those long frustrated by repeat injections and fleeting results.
Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat to disrupt the small nerves that keep sending relentless pain signals—even when the original injury has healed. That means a chance for lasting relief, so you can reclaim the daily joys pain has taken.
Research suggests this approach may lead to significant improvement for select patients; to learn more, read through the current clinical guidelines published by the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (evidence-based recommendations for radiofrequency ablation).
If you’ve been told, “There’s not much left to try,” but you still believe you deserve to get your life back, you’re exactly who I hope to help.
Why Injections Stop Working — Understanding Nerve Pain
For so many of my patients in Napa and the surrounding areas, the story is the same: injections helped at first, but the pain always crept back. I see this especially in people like Mark from Vallejo, who’s tried everything from physical therapy to spinal cord stimulator trials. The reason? Injections can calm inflammation, but they don’t always address the overactive nerves that keep firing pain signals long after the original injury has healed.
In my practice, I’ve noticed that when pain keeps returning after injections, it’s often because the nerves themselves have become the problem. This is where radiofrequency ablation can make a real difference. Studies suggest that by targeting these nerves, we can disrupt the pain cycle and offer longer-lasting relief than injections alone.
As a pain management specialist with years of experience in treating chronic joint and spine pain, I often meet patients who feel defeated, telling me they’ve "tried everything and nothing has worked." I want to reassure you—you aren’t alone in this. It’s very common for pain to persist because the source is nerve-based rather than just soft tissue or inflammation. By recognizing this pattern early, we can shift our focus toward interventions like radiofrequency ablation that aim to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.
If you’re tired of short-term fixes and want to understand what’s really driving your pain, you’re not alone. Many of my patients from St. Helena and American Canyon come in feeling skeptical, but hopeful for something that finally works. For more on how nerve pain works, check out this overview from the Mayo Clinic.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation? (Backed by Latest Evidence)
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat to disrupt the small nerves responsible for chronic pain. In Napa, I use this technique for patients who are worn out by repeat injections and want a more lasting solution. The evidence shows that when performed at 60–80°C for 60–90 seconds, this approach is best supported for spine and joint pain.
I’ve seen firsthand how this can help people like Lena, a preschool teacher from Napa, who just wanted her body back after years of being told “nothing’s wrong.” For her, and for many others, radiofrequency ablation isn’t about masking pain—it’s about reclaiming function and confidence.
As someone who performs these procedures regularly, I can say that the most rewarding part is seeing my patients get back to their normal routines—whether that’s gardening, walking the Oxbow Market, or playing with grandkids. The research suggests relief can last up to 12 months for many people, but what matters most to me is hearing someone say, “I finally feel like myself again.” I always discuss that individual outcomes vary, and more high-quality research is needed, but in my real-world experience, most patients achieve improvements that allow them to be more active with fewer disruptions to daily life.
Research indicates that pain relief can last up to 12 months for select patients, though results do vary and more high-quality studies are needed. If you’re searching for a treatment that goes beyond temporary fixes, you can read the latest guidelines from the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience.
Medial Branch Block Diagnosis: Essential First Step
Before I recommend radiofrequency ablation, I always start with a medial branch block diagnosis. This is a simple, targeted nerve test to see if your pain is truly coming from the small joints in your spine. For patients like George from rural Sonoma County, who’s tried everything and worries about big surgeries, this step is crucial.
In my Napa clinic, I use medial branch blocks to pinpoint the exact nerves causing pain. If you get significant relief from this test, it’s a strong sign that radiofrequency ablation could help you. This approach is backed by best-practice guidelines and helps avoid unnecessary procedures.
As a double board-certified specialist, I can’t stress enough how important it is to get the diagnosis right before jumping into any procedure. Over the years, I’ve seen patients arrive from across the North Bay frustrated by repeated treatments that never address the actual problem. By using medial branch blocks, I’m able to tailor each treatment with precision, which means you’re more likely to achieve meaningful relief and avoid unnecessary or ineffective interventions.
Many people are surprised at how straightforward this process is. If you’re frustrated by years of “normal” scans and mixed messages, you’re not alone. For more on why this step matters, see the Spine Intervention Society’s patient resources.
How Does the Procedure Work? (Safety, Outcomes, Recovery)
When I perform radiofrequency ablation in Napa, the procedure is done right in our clinic—no hospital stay required. After numbing the area, I use X-ray guidance to place a tiny probe near the targeted nerve. Controlled heat is then applied for about 60–90 seconds, following the latest safety guidelines.
Most of my patients, including those from Yountville and Fairfield, describe the experience as comfortable, with only mild soreness afterward. Recovery is typically quick, and many return to light activity within a day or two. However, as with any procedure, results and recovery can vary. Studies suggest that pain relief can last several months to a year, but more research is needed to predict who will benefit most.
I always individualize recovery recommendations, especially for patients with other health concerns. For those living in Napa Valley who depend on staying active—be it for family, work, or leisure—the goal is to minimize downtime while aiming to maximize functional relief. Patients who are well-informed about the process and receive consistent follow-up care may experience improved recovery and satisfaction. My number one goal is not just pain relief, but restoring your ability to participate in the activities that matter most to you.
If you’re worried about downtime or safety—especially if you have other health conditions like George—know that I always tailor the plan to your needs. For a detailed look at the process, visit the Mayo Clinic’s patient guide.
Dr. Jackie Weisbein: Napa’s Trusted Leader in Advanced Pain Procedures
As a double board-certified physician in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people in Napa and the North Bay find real, lasting relief. I personally perform every advanced procedure at Napa Valley Orthopaedic Medical Group, so you’re never handed off to someone less experienced.
Patients from as far as Marin, Sonoma, and even Lake County come to my clinic because they want more than just another injection—they want answers and a plan that fits their life. I’m proud to be recognized as a national leader and educator in interventional pain management, and I bring that expertise to every patient I see.
If you’re tired of feeling like a number or being told “there’s nothing left to try,” you’re exactly who I hope to help. For more about my approach and credentials, you can learn more about Dr. Weisbein.
Local Resources and Next Steps for Napa Valley Patients
Navigating chronic pain can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In Napa, we’re fortunate to have resources like Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, which offers comprehensive spine care and rehabilitation for those who need extra support (learn more here).
I also see many patients from St. Helena, American Canyon, and Sonoma who want advanced options without traveling to San Francisco or Sacramento. Whether you’re a wine industry worker with repetitive stress injuries or a retiree hoping to stay active, my clinic is here to help you find a path forward.
If you’re ready to explore your options, or just want to understand what’s possible, I encourage you to reach out. Consider exploring local community wellness programs that may offer education on ergonomics and pain management.
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, I’m always grateful when community members share their experiences. My approach—whether it’s radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, Intracept, SI-BONE fusion, or ReActiv8—centers on advanced, evidence-based care delivered with a personal touch. As a double board-certified, fellowship-trained physician and President of Women Innovators in Pain Management, I believe that every person deserves to feel heard and supported. One Google review shared a perspective that reflects our boutique, patient-centered model here in Napa:
Google Review Spotlight
lauren: Dr Weisbien and her team provided an exceptional care. I had a nerve ablation 2 days ago and am excited with my results. I'm very thankful View Review
Read the full review on Google
Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation in Napa, CA, offers a real path forward for those who feel stuck in a cycle of recurring back or neck pain—especially when injections no longer provide lasting relief. In summary, studies suggest this minimally invasive procedure can disrupt pain signals at their source, often providing months of improved function and quality of life for the right candidates.
If you’re tired of short-term fixes and want answers that go beyond “just another shot,” you’re not alone. As a double board-certified physician in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, and President of Women Innovators in Pain Management, I’m here to help you reclaim your life with evidence-based, compassionate care. You don’t have to live in pain—there are real options. Schedule your consultation today.
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.
