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Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025. Dr. Praveen Mambalam has been recognized as one of Seattle Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pain Medicine for August & September 2025.
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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Procedure in Washington

Get lasting relief from chronic back, neck, or joint pain with Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) procedure. Our specialists in Washington provide safe, effective treatment options. 

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What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that uses controlled heat energy to target and disrupt the nerves responsible for sending pain signals to the brain. Commonly used to treat chronic neck, back, and joint pain, RFA provides long-term relief by “turning off” the pain pathways without affecting surrounding healthy tissues.

By applying heat through a specialized probe, RFA blocks pain signals from reaching your brain, offering months of relief for patients who haven’t responded well to medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. This procedure is highly precise, safe, and often an excellent alternative to surgery or long-term drug use.

At Washington Pain and Spine Specialists (WaPASS), we specialize in advanced nerve procedures, evidence-based procedures like Radiofrequency Ablation to help patients to regain control over their lives. Our team takes a personalized approach to start detailed diagnostics to identify the exact source of your pain and then recommending the most effective treatment, whether that’s an RFA procedure or another minimally invasive technique.

We focus on relieving your pain while preserving mobility and quality of life. From diagnosis through recovery, WaPASS supports you with compassionate care, cutting-edge technology, and experienced pain management physicians who put your well-being first.

When And Why To Go With RFA For Your Chronic Pain

As one of best pain management clinic in Washington, we understand how exhausting and frustrating chronic pain can be, especially when you’ve tried medications or physical therapy, and still wake up in discomfort every day. Whether it’s persistent lower back pain, neck stiffness, or joint aches that interfere with your routine, you shouldn’t have to live in constant pain.

That’s where Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) can make a difference.

If you’ve been living with persistent, localized pain that hasn’t responded well to conservative care, Radiofrequency Ablation may be right for you. We recommend RFA when:

  • Diagnostic nerve blocks have confirmed the source of your pain
  • Pain has persisted for more than 3–6 months
  • You want a non-surgical, longer-lasting pain management solution
  • You’re seeking to reduce or eliminate reliance on opioids or pain medications

RFA is often performed after a successful Medial Branch Block injection, confirming that the affected nerves are the source of your discomfort.

When And Why To Go With RFA For Your Chronic Pain

Pain Condition We Treat With Radiofrequency Ablation

As a pain management clinic, our Radiofrequency Ablation treatment in Washington offers a  effective treat a wide range of chronic pain conditions, including:

Facet Joint Pain (Neck or Back)

When small joints in the spine become arthritic or inflamed, RFA can relieve the nerve pain they generate.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

RFA targets the nerves transmitting pain from the SI joint, a common cause of lower back and pelvic discomfort.

Chronic Low Back Pain

For patients whose lumbar spine pain doesn’t improve with other therapies, RFA offers a durable solution.

Cervical Pain (Neck)

Radiofrequency ablation in the cervical spine reduces stiffness and radiating nerve pain in the neck and shoulders.

Degenerative Arthritis - Osteoarthritis (Knees or Hips)

RFA is increasingly used to alleviate pain in major joints affected by wear-and-tear arthritis.

Our specialist

Dr. Praveen Mambalam MD

Dr. Ho Dzung

How to Prepare for Your Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure

To Prepare for Your Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure, follow:

  • Have someone drive you home, as you cannot drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure. A small sip of water is allowed for necessary medications.
  • If you use insulin, consult your doctor for dosage adjustments and bring your medication with you for after the procedure.
  • Stop blood thinners or antiplatelet medications only with the approval of your prescribing doctor.
  • Continue taking other prescribed medications with a sip of water. Bring them with you for after the procedure.
  • Never stop any prescribed medication without consulting your primary or referring doctor.

Don’t Let Your Pain Rule Your Life.

Discover long-lasting relief with Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment in Washington.

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Struggling with persistent pain that medications can't fix

How Radiofrequency Ablation Is Performed- Step by Step Procedure

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is performed as a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. The process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many nerves are being treated.

  • To begin, you will be positioned comfortably on the procedure table. The skin over the treatment area is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection. A local anesthetic is then injected to numb the skin and tissues, helping minimize any discomfort during the procedure. In some cases, a mild sedative may be given to help you relax.
  • Once the area is numb, your doctor uses fluoroscopy (a special type of X-ray guidance) to precisely guide a thin needle toward the targeted nerve. This imaging ensures accuracy and safety, allowing the physician to reach the exact spot responsible for sending pain signals. Before applying the radiofrequency treatment, a small test stimulation may be performed. This helps confirm that the needle is correctly positioned and that the correct nerve has been identified.
  • After confirmation, radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle tip, creating controlled heat that interrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain. Each nerve ablation typically takes about 60 to 90 seconds. If multiple nerves are involved, the process may be repeated at several sites during the same session.
  • When the RFA treatment is complete, the needle is removed, and a small bandage is placed over the injection site. No stitches are required. You will then be monitored in the recovery area for a short period to ensure you are stable before going home. Since RFA is minimally invasive, most patients are able to walk out of the clinic the same day, with only mild soreness at the injection site.
What is the plan for after the procedure

What is the plan for after the procedure?

RFA is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, so you’ll be monitored for a short period before going home the same day. Most patients resume light activities within 24–48 hours, though it’s recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days.

You may experience some soreness at the injection site or mild numbness in the treated area, which typically resolves within a few days. Pain relief from Radiofrequency Ablation treatment in Washington may begin within 1–2 weeks and can last from 6 months up to a year or more, depending on your body’s healing response and nerve regeneration rate.

We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and adjust your pain management plan as needed. Many patients find RFA a life-changing solution, especially when other treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or chiropractic care have failed.

Why Choose Us For Your RFA Treatment in Washington

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Other Pain Management Solutions We Provide

Medial Branch Blocks (MBB’s)

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Frequently Asked Question

RFA can dramatically reduce or even eliminate chronic pain in your neck, back, or SI joint—so you can return to doing the things you love, like walking, working, sleeping better, or playing with your kids—without being held back by constant discomfort.

You may be a good candidate if you suffer from chronic pain in your lower back, neck, or other areas related to the SI joint or facet joints, and have experienced relief from a prior diagnostic nerve block.

At Washington Pain and Spine Specialists, we focus on precision care. Our team is experienced in advanced interventional procedures like Radiofrequency Ablation treatment in Washington, with personalized plans that target your unique pain condition.

Often, yes but that’s a good thing! Once your pain is reduced, physical therapy becomes more effective. You’ll be able to strengthen your body and restore movement without the burden of constant discomfort.

Yes, like any medical procedure, RFA may have side effects. Most are temporary and mild, such as soreness at the injection site, numbness, or slight swelling. Rarely, patients may experience infection, bleeding, or nerve irritation. Your doctor will take precautions to minimize these risks.

No, They are Different

Neck (Cervical Spine), Mid-back (Thoracic Spine), Lower back (Lumbar Spine), Sacroiliac Joint Region, Knee pain, Hip joint pain, Certain nerve-related headaches.

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