1 Farrer Park Station Road, #08-14, Farrer Park Hospital (Connexion), Singapore 217562
Welcome to Chiropractor of Losangle !
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Call for help: (+1800) 456 7890
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ALLEVIATE PAIN CLINIC
We see patients with a variety of Pain-related conditions.
What is Joint Denervation?
Joint denervation, also referred to as joint nerve ablation, is a medical procedure aimed at providing relief from chronic joint pain. It involves targeting and interrupting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the affected joint to the brain. By disrupting these pain pathways, the procedure helps to alleviate persistent pain that cannot be managed with traditional treatments.
The process typically begins with identifying the nerves that supply the painful joint. Once these nerves are located, they can be treated using minimally invasive techniques such as chemical ablation or radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Joint Denervation?
Joint denervation is commonly recommended for patients suffering from pain due to osteoarthritis. It is especially considered when conservative treatments—such as pain medications, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections—have not provided adequate relief. Additionally, it is a viable option for individuals who are either not ready for surgery or those whose arthritis is not severe enough to warrant an invasive procedure.
For some, joint denervation serves as a temporary solution or bridge before surgery, while others opt for it due to personal preferences or contraindications to surgery.
How is Joint Denervation Performed?
Joint denervation is generally carried out in an outpatient Day Surgery Unit, with the patient under mild sedation. One of the most commonly used methods for denervation is radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
During this procedure, a specialized needle is inserted near the targeted nerves, with the guidance of imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound. Once positioned correctly, the needle emits radiofrequency energy, which heats the nerve tissue. This heat disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals, offering relief from the joint pain.
How Safe is Joint Denervation?
Joint denervation is considered a relatively safe and low-risk procedure. However, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks involved. Common side effects include:
- Mild swelling at the injection site
- Temporary increase in pain for up to two weeks following the procedure
In rare instances, complications may include:
- Infection at the injection site
- Injury to nearby nerves
- Bleeding or skin burns due to the radiofrequency energy
