The question of what radio frequency is is becoming increasingly important in the medical field. Especially for patients who suffer from chronic pain and are looking for less invasive solutions.
Radiofrequency has become an effective option for pain relief when other treatments such as medication or physical therapy do not provide satisfactory results. Explained for better understanding Dr. A.S. Jesus of Jamesspecialist in the pain department of hospitals Quirónsalud Teneriffa, Quirónsalud Costa Adeje and Quirónsalud Vidathe functionality and possible applications in detail.
“The procedure has gained popularity in recent decades due to its effectiveness and safety in treating pain that does not respond to other measures such as medication or physiotherapy,” explains the doctor. “It is considered a less aggressive alternative to surgery and is a viable option for patients who require one longer lasting pain relief without the side effects of analgesics,” he adds.
What is radio frequency and how does it work?
Radiofrequency is a medical procedure in which high-frequency electromagnetic wavesusually between 300 kHz and 1 MHz, are used to generate heat. This heat is used to disrupt the function of the nerves that transmit pain signals to the brain. This results in lasting relief without damaging the motor nerves or surrounding tissue.
The head of the Pain Department of Quirónsalud Tenerife explains that this technique is minimally invasive. “It offers a safe alternative to surgery for people suffering from chronic pain,” he says.
He adds that radiofrequency has become the preferred method of treatment because it can be tailored to individual patient needs.
When is radio frequency used?
Radiofrequency is used for a variety of chronic diseases. The most common include:
- Chronic back and neck pain: This type of pain is usually due to problems in the vertebral joints or intervertebral discs. Radiofrequency is used to deactivate the sensory nerves in these areas, significantly relieving lower back and neck pain.
- Joint pain: For osteoarthritis, radiofrequency is used on the knee, hip and shoulder joints. By blocking the nerves in these areas, patients experience a significant reduction in the sensation of pain.
- Neuropathic Schmerzen: In cases of sciatica or post-herpetic neuralgia, pulsed radiofrequency modulates the function of the affected nerves without destroying them, thus helping to reduce the intensity of neuropathic pain.
- Cancer pain: For cancer patients suffering from intractable pain, radiofrequency can improve their quality of life when other treatments are not effective.
Methods and types of radio frequency
The RF procedure is relatively simple and is described below light sedation and local anesthesia carried out. During the procedure, the pain-causing nerve is located using imaging techniques such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. Then special needles are inserted through which radio frequency waves are passed.
There are two main types of radio frequencies:
- Continuous radio frequency: It generates heat that destroys the sensory nerves. It is often used to treat chronic joint pain, such as: B. Arthritis, used.
- Pulsed Radio Frequency: It does not destroy the nerve, but rather emits small bursts of heat that change the transmission of pain. It is mainly used for neuropathic pain.
The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes and an hour, and patients can resume their daily activities soon after.
Benefits of radiofrequency therapy
One of the main advantages of radiofrequency technology is its minimally invasive nature, which reduces the risk of complications such as infections or scarring. Additionally, recovery is rapid, and pain relief lasts between six months and two years, depending on the type of pain and the technique used.
Another important advantage is the reduced use of painkillers. By providing significant and long-lasting pain relief, patients can reduce their dependence on painkillers and reduce the side effects associated with prolonged use.
If you are looking for effective alternatives to treat chronic pain, must know what radio frequency is and how it can be used.
This procedure not only improves patients’ quality of life, but also offers a less invasive option with fewer side effects compared to other techniques. Radiofrequency continues to gain traction as an essential tool in the fight against chronic pain, and its popularity continues to grow due to its safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion: Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain, low back pain, and neck pain. Find out what it is…
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