Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce chronic pain symptoms that are related to facet joint arthritis of the spine, disc herniation, and sacroiliac joint pain causing severe lumbar (lower back) pain.

It uses an electric current to heat a small area close to nerve tissue to stop it from sending pain signals

This procedure is done using x-ray guidance in the operation theater under local anesthesia with or without sedation. 

With the needle tip placed accurately, a small amount of electrical current is passed and a response is obtained from the machine and patient. Once confirmed, a heat lesion is created on the nerve for a short duration of time.

After the procedure, the patient will be followed up with other modalities of treatment to manage the low backache.