A radiofrequency ablation procedure is a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce arthritic back pain. Radiofrequency ablation, also known as rhizotomy, uses heat derived from RF energy to ablate or remove targeted nerve fibers that transmit pain signals to the brain.

Some examples of conditions and disorders that radiofrequency ablation can treat include the following:

• Arthritis of the spine (spondylosis)
• Cervicogenic headaches
• Facet joint pain
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, also known as sacroiliitis or sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Nerve blocks are a type of medication that is used to temporarily block pain signals in the body. They are most commonly used in the lower back to numb the area around the spinal nerve, reducing pain and inflammation. Nerve blocks can also be used to disrupt painful nerve signals in other parts of the body, such as the arms and legs. They are often used together with other medications to provide additional pain relief, but may also be used on their own.

Nerve blocks work by injecting anesthetic or steroid medications into the nerves, which causes them to temporarily stop sending pain signals to the brain. They are most commonly used in the short-term to provide immediate pain relief, but are often used in conjunction with other long-term pain management methods such as physical therapy, exercise and lifestyle changes.