Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to disrupt nerve signals and reduce chronic lower back pain.
During this minimally-invasive procedure, the physician uses heat from radio waves to treat painful facet joints in your lower back. This procedure is also called radiofrequency rhizotomy. It can treat pain that doesn’t respond to medications or to physical therapy. This procedure uses heat from radio waves to treat painful facet joints in your lower back. It eases pain that isn’t helped by medications or physical therapy.
You should see a doctor for Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy if you experience:
Don’t wait in pain — our expert spine specialists are available for same-day evaluations.
Lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radio wave heat to target painful lumbar facet joints. Also called rhizotomy, the procedure interrupts nerves carrying pain signals, providing lasting relief when medications, therapy, or injections haven’t helped enough. This outpatient option reduces chronic low back pain and improves mobility. Learn more about related conditions on our Facet Joint Syndrome page.
This procedure is often recommended for patients with chronic low back pain caused by facet joints that does not improve with conservative care. If medications, activity modification, or physical therapy have failed to provide relief, lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy may be an option. The treatment helps block pain transmission from the irritated nerves. Read about other conservative options on our Non-Surgical Treatments page.
During the procedure, the physician uses fluoroscopic imaging to guide special probes near the nerves supplying painful facet joints. Local anesthesia is applied for comfort. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered, heating the nerve to stop it from transmitting pain signals. The procedure is minimally invasive, quick, and performed in an outpatient setting. For details about diagnostic imaging, see Medial Branch Blocks.
Many patients notice improvement within days to a few weeks after lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy. The pain relief often lasts several months, allowing patients to participate more fully in physical therapy and daily activities. If discomfort returns, the procedure can sometimes be repeated for longer-term results. For more information about similar treatments, visit our Lumbar Epidural Injection page.
Lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy is generally safe when performed by trained specialists. The most common side effect is temporary soreness at the treatment site. Serious complications such as bleeding, infection, or nerve injury are rare but discussed before the procedure. Overall, it is considered a low-risk, outpatient therapy. Learn about related interventional procedures on our Cervical Radiofrequency Neurotomy page.
Radiofrequency neurotomy is one component of a stepwise treatment plan for spine care. By reducing chronic pain it enables patients to progress in physical therapy, regain mobility, and return to regular activities. It does not replace rehabilitation but works alongside it. This makes it part of a non-surgical-first approach to managing back pain. Learn more about supportive Physical Therapy services.
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