Facet joint radiofrequency denervation destroys nerve fibres supplying painful facet joints, using heat and radio waves
Chronic back or neck pain can significantly affect your mobility, sleep and overall wellbeing. If inflammation within the small joints of the spine (known as facet joints) has been identified as the source of your pain, radiofrequency facet joint denervation may be recommended.
The procedure is designed to interrupt pain signals from affected facet joints, helping to provide longer-lasting relief than injections alone. At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, private facet joint denervation is performed by experienced consultant pain management specialists.
If persistent spinal pain has not responded adequately to conservative treatment, a specialist consultation can help determine whether radiofrequency denervation is appropriate for you. Call us today to find out more.
Facet joint denervation, also known as radiofrequency ablation or radiofrequency denervation, is a minimally-invasive procedure designed to reduce pain originating from the facet joints of the spine.
The facet joints are small stabilising joints located between the vertebrae. Over time, through injury or simply wear and tear, they can become inflamed or arthritic, particularly in the lower back or neck. When this happens, the small nerves supplying these joints transmit pain signals to the brain.
During radiofrequency denervation, a thin needle is carefully positioned near the targeted nerve under imaging guidance, usually using X-ray (fluoroscopy). Once correctly placed, controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered through the needle. This generates heat, which disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
The aim is not to damage the spine or joint itself, but to interrupt the specific sensory nerves responsible for chronic pain. Because these nerves can regenerate over time, pain relief can last several months or longer, however symptoms will usually return at some point.
The procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthetic with or without light sedation and is typically performed as a day-case treatment.
Facet joint denervation is used to treat chronic spinal pain that originates from the facet joints. This may include:
Facet joint pain is often mechanical in nature. It may worsen with certain movements and improve with rest. Unlike nerve root compression (such as sciatica), facet joint pain usually remains localised to the back or neck and does not radiate far down the limbs.
Radiofrequency denervation is generally recommended only after other conservative treatments have been explored and after diagnostic injections have confirmed the source of pain.
Your consultant will assess whether your symptoms, examination findings and imaging results are consistent with facet joint pain before advising on treatment.
The cost of facet joint denervation at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on the number of joints being treated and the complexity of your treatment plan. Prices may also vary between different consultants.
Following consultation and diagnostic confirmation, your specialist will outline the recommended approach. You will receive clear and transparent pricing information before proceeding.
Our prices typically include the procedure itself, imaging guidance, consultant fees and follow-up appointments. If additional injections or investigations are required, this will be discussed in advance.
If you have private medical insurance, facet joint denervation may be covered by your policy, but you should confirm your level of cover directly with your provider. For self-funding patients, the hospital team can explain available payment options and ensure all costs are clearly outlined beforehand.
Clear communication around pricing is an important part of your care experience.
Choosing private treatment allows you to access prompt consultant-led assessment and intervention in a dedicated clinical environment.
Your care pathway begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, your specialist will discuss your symptoms in detail, including their duration, severity and impact on your daily activities. You may describe pain that worsens with twisting, bending backwards or prolonged standing. In the neck, facet joint pain can cause stiffness and discomfort radiating into the shoulders.
Before proceeding to radiofrequency denervation, it is common for diagnostic facet joint injections to be performed. These injections contain local anaesthetic and temporarily numb the nerves supplying the facet joints. If you experience significant but short-lived relief following these injections, it confirms that the facet joints are the likely source of your pain.
Radiofrequency denervation is typically considered when diagnostic injections have provided clear temporary benefit but your symptoms have returned. Before you make any decisions about treatment, your consultant will explain in detail the procedure, the expected duration of pain relief, and any potential risks of the procedure.
Throughout your treatment, you will receive clear explanations and coordinated care from a specialist team.
Recovery from radiofrequency facet joint denervation is typically straightforward.
You may experience mild soreness or bruising at the needle insertion site for a few days after the procedure. Some patients notice a temporary increase in discomfort before improvement begins, as the treated nerves settle.
Pain relief is not always immediate. While some individuals experience early improvement, it may take several weeks for the full benefit to become apparent as inflammation reduces and nerve signalling decreases.
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise may need to be avoided temporarily. Your consultant will provide specific guidance based on your condition.
Relief given from facet joint denervation can last many months and sometimes longer. Because nerves can regenerate, the procedure may be repeated if symptoms return and if it was previously effective.
Rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and strengthening exercises, often plays an important role in maintaining long-term improvement.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Chronic back and neck pain require careful diagnosis and a structured treatment approach. At Fairfield Independent Hospital, your care is delivered by experienced pain management specialists, supported by modern imaging facilities and dedicated clinical teams.
From initial consultation through to follow-up, your treatment is coordinated and consultant-led, ensuring clarity and continuity at every stage.
If chronic back or neck pain is affecting your daily life, booking a specialist consultation is the first step.
To book a consultation to discuss facet joint denervation with a pain management specialist near you, give us a call and one of our friendly advisers will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
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