For people living with chronic pain, even small tasks can feel overwhelming. Advanced treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), offer new hope by providing longer-term relief compared to injections or medications. Knowing how to prepare for your first appointment can help ease anxiety and ensure a smoother experience.
At Grand Rapids Pain, our board-certified interventional pain specialists provide personalized, minimally invasive solutions for patients across Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Our team uses advanced diagnostics and the latest procedures to target pain at its source and restore daily function. If you’re considering RFA, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
In this article, we’ll explain what to expect, how to prepare, and what recovery looks like after your first radiofrequency ablation treatment.
What to Expect During Your First Radiofrequency Ablation Appointment
Your first appointment is designed to help you feel comfortable and informed. The process usually follows these steps:
- Preparation and Review: Your physician will go over your medical history, current medications, and prior pain treatments.
- Anesthesia and Positioning: Local anesthesia is applied to the treatment area, and you’ll be comfortably positioned depending on the site of pain. Sedation is sometimes offered for additional comfort.
- Precise Targeting: Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound imaging, the physician guides a thin needle to the nerve responsible for your pain.
- The Treatment: Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle tip, creating controlled heat that disrupts pain signals.
- Duration: The radiofrequency ablation procedure typically lasts 15–30 minutes. You’ll return home the same day.
Because RFA is minimally invasive, no incisions or sutures are required. Most patients are up and moving within hours.
How to Prepare Physically and Mentally for the Procedure
Preparation plays a key role in ensuring your procedure goes smoothly.
Physical Preparation
- Follow fasting guidelines: Your care team may ask you to avoid food for several hours before the procedure. Clear fluids are often allowed up until two hours before.
- Medication review: Some medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted in advance. Always confirm with your doctor.
- Dress comfortably: Loose-fitting clothing makes it easier for staff to access the treatment area. Remove jewelry before your appointment.
- Arrange transportation: Because sedation may be used, it’s best to have someone available to drive you home.
Mental Preparation
- Reduce anxiety with knowledge: Understanding what happens during the radiofrequency ablation procedure helps many patients feel calmer.
- Plan your schedule: Most patients return to light activities quickly, but it’s helpful to plan for a day of rest.
- Focus on your goals: Remind yourself that this step is about regaining mobility, reducing pain, and restoring daily function.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before the Treatment
To feel confident and informed, consider asking your physician these questions:
- Am I a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation treatment?
- How does radiofrequency ablation work specifically for my condition?
- Will this procedure help with my arthritis, back pain, or pain after knee replacement?
- What are the risks and benefits for me personally?
- How soon can I return to work or exercise?
- If pain returns, can this procedure be repeated?
At Grand Rapids Pain, our specialists take the time to answer all your questions and ensure you feel confident moving forward.
Post-Procedure Care Tips for Optimal Recovery
Most patients return to regular activities within 24–48 hours, but there are steps you can take to support healing:
- Rest on the Day of: Allow your body to recover by avoiding strenuous activity immediately after.
- Manage Soreness: Mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site is normal and usually resolves within days. Applying ice packs can help.
- Monitor Progress: Relief may begin immediately or within one to three weeks. Track changes in your pain levels to discuss with your doctor at follow-up.
- Stay Active: Once cleared, gentle movement and physical therapy can help maintain mobility and improve results.
Confidence for Your First Appointment
Your first radiofrequency ablation procedure doesn’t have to feel intimidating. With the right preparation and guidance from experienced specialists, it can be a turning point in your journey to lasting relief. At Grand Rapids Pain, we’re dedicated to helping patients across Grand Rapids and West Michigan reduce pain, restore independence, and get back to living fully.
Your first radiofrequency ablation appointment can be the turning point in your pain journey. Connect with us at (616) 727-0083 or book online now to prepare for lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
WILL THE PROCEDURE HURT?
Most patients feel only mild discomfort. Local anesthesia and sedation options make the procedure tolerable.
HOW SOON WILL I FEEL RELIEF?
Some feel better right away, but most notice improvement within one to three weeks.
HOW LONG DOES RELIEF LAST?
Relief usually lasts 6–12 months, and repeat treatments are possible if pain returns.
IS RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION SAFE?
Yes. It is a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure with an excellent safety record.
DOES IT WORK FOR THE KNEES OR BACK?
Yes. RFA is commonly used for radiofrequency ablation knee treatments and radiofrequency ablation for back pain, along with other chronic pain conditions.
