Why Does My Herniated Disc Pain Improve After RFA but My Numbness Stays?
Your herniated disc pain improves after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) because this procedure targets medial branch nerves to interrupt pain signals. However, the numbness may persist because RFA does not fix the underlying nerve compression or damage caused by the herniated disc.
At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our specialists help you manage persistent back or leg numbness after radiofrequency ablation. We provide targeted nerve regeneration treatments, monitor sensory nerve recovery, and guide you through rehabilitation to protect the nerves. If numbness still persists, we perform minimally invasive procedures to restore sensation. Call us today at 855-321-6784 to book an appointment.
What are the Causes of Numbness After Radiofrequency Ablation?
Numbness after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can occur due to the use of local anaesthetics and the nerve’s response to the procedure. It can also be caused by inflammation at the treatment site or minor damage to nerves and blood vessels during the RFA procedure. Here’s how each condition can cause numbness after RFA:
Local Anesthetic
After your RFA procedure, the local anesthetic at the injection site can temporarily block nerve signals. For instance, medications like lidocaine or bupivacaine block sodium channels in your sensory nerves, which disrupts pain signals.
Nerve Response to the Procedure
The affected nerves may respond to the controlled heat during radiofrequency ablation, causing temporary numbness. This nerve reaction is a natural part of the body’s response to the procedure. According to PubMed, in a retrospective analysis of 616 radiofrequency lesions, Kornick et al. reported that paresthesia (a tingling or numb sensation) occurred in 1.0% of ablation cases.
Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural healing process after RFA, especially around the facet joint or medial branch nerves. This swelling can compress nearby nerves, leading to localised numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation. In such cases, you can perform gentle movements and controlled activities to support recovery.
Blood Vessel Damage
Minor blood vessel or nerve irritation can occur during the RFA procedure, especially when targeting specific nerves to interrupt pain signals. This damage can temporarily disrupt peripheral nerves, causing pain or numbness in the affected area.
Can Persistent Numbness After RFA Indicate an Underlying Nerve Problem?
Yes, ongoing numbness after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can indicate an underlying nerve issue. If you experience persistent pain or burning sensations, it may signal nerve irritation or partial nerve damage from a herniated disc. Other than that, if you experience weakness, loss of coordination, or changes in reflexes, it could indicate sensory nerve dysfunction, requiring immediate medical attention.
For example, PubMed reports four cases of iatrogenic neurological injury that occurred after a radiofrequency ablation procedure. One patient had left shoulder, scapular, and arm pain with hand weakness immediately after RFA for chronic neck pain. The EMG/NCV also confirmed denervation in the left C8–T1 distribution.
What’s the Difference Between Pain Relief and Sensory Recovery?
Pain relief is the reduction of chronic pain after RFA, while sensory recovery refers to the gradual return of normal nerve function. Besides that, pain relief occurs quickly because the procedure interrupts pain signals from medial branch nerves and nearby nerves, reducing burning sensations, facet joint pain, and localised pain.
In contrast, sensory recovery takes longer because your sensory nerves need time to heal. You may notice persistent numbness or a tingling sensation, which can persist for several weeks or even months. In such cases, contact our specialists to speed up your recovery. We will assess your nerve function and monitor your progress to support long-term nerve health.
What At-Home Therapies Support Nerve Recovery After RFA?
After radiofrequency ablation, gentle stretching and the use of cold or heat packs can support nerve recovery. You should also take an anti-inflammatory diet, use pain medications as needed, and avoid activities that worsen nerve compression. Here’s how each treatment supports your recovery after RFA:
Gentle Stretching
Gentle stretching improves blood flow to affected nerves, eases nerve irritation, and helps maintain mobility. Here are some stretches that can improve circulation and support nerve recovery:
- Knee-to-Chest Stretch: Lie on your back and gently pull one knee toward your chest, hold for 15–20 seconds.
- Seated Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the edge of a chair and extend one leg, reaching toward your toes.
- Pelvic Tilt: Lie on your back, knees bent, tighten your abdominal muscles, and tilt your pelvis upward. Hold for 5–10 seconds.
- Cat-Cow Stretch: On hands and knees, alternate arching and rounding your back to mobilize the spine.
Cold or Heat Packs
Using cold or heat packs can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief after RFA. Apply a cold pack on the treatment site for 10–15 minutes during the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling. After that, switch to a heat pack for 10–15 minutes to relax muscles and improve blood flow.
According to Physiopedia, cryotherapy helps with pain by producing a local anaesthetic effect. It also reduces edema, slows nerve conduction velocity, and decreases cellular metabolism.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
An anti-inflammatory diet supports nerve regeneration and overall nerve health. You can use the following anti-inflammatory foods to reduce inflammation and promote nerve healing after RFA:
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard provide antioxidants and vitamins.
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries help reduce inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds support nerve health.
Pain Medications
Pain medications such as acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or prescribed neuropathic pain medications provide significant relief after RFA. These medications reduce chronic back pain, allowing you to perform gentle movements and stretches that support nerve recovery.
What Should You Do If Numbness Persists After RFA?
If numbness persists after radiofrequency ablation (RFA), you should visit our spine specialist for a detailed nerve assessment. We will review your medical history, details of the RFA procedure, and current symptoms. We also check the location, intensity, and duration of numbness to identify which nerves are affected.
After that, we perform a physical and neurological examination. This exam includes testing sensory nerve function, reflexes, and muscle strength in the affected area. Moreover, our healthcare providers will conduct imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to check for ongoing nerve compression, inflammation, or structural changes at the spinal disc or facet joint.
Then, based on the results, we develop a personalized treatment plan to treat persistent numbness. These treatments may include nerve regeneration injections, repeated minimally invasive RFA, and PRP therapy. Call us today at 855-321-6784 to schedule an appointment.
Can Epidural Steroid Injections Help Reduce Numbness?
Yes, epidural steroid injections (ESIs) can help reduce numbness caused by nerve compression from a herniated disc. They deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly around the spinal cord and affected nerves, reducing swelling and irritation. By reducing inflammation, ESIs may also improve nerve signals, relieve severe pain, and provide lasting relief in the affected area.
How Long Does Numbness From a Herniated Disc Usually Last?
Full sensory recovery after RFA can take 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the extent of nerve compression and the degree of nerve irritation. For instance, many patients notice gradual improvement in numbness, tingling, or burning sensations within the first few weeks as nerve regeneration begins. However, complete recovery of normal sensation may take longer in cases of severe nerve compression.
Tip: Gentle nerve-gliding exercises and proper posture can help reduce nerve irritation and speed up sensory recovery.
Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Can Help You Identify the Cause of Persistent Numbness — Book a Visit Now!
After radiofrequency ablation, persistent numbness, tingling, or burning can interfere with your daily activities. You may notice weakness, loss of coordination, or slow sensory recovery even though your pain improves. Over time, these symptoms may result in chronic low back pain and permanent nerve damage.
At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we help you address persistent numbness and nerve irritation. Our specialists provide targeted nerve regeneration therapies, monitor sensory recovery, and guide your rehabilitation. Additionally, to make your treatment process convenient, our team offers surgical care, conservative treatments, and pain management, all under one roof. Call us at 855-321-6784 or visit 2339 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY 11554, for long-term relief after RFA.
FAQs
Will Numbness From a Herniated Disc Go Away?
Yes, numbness from a disc herniation goes away once pressure on the affected nerve decreases. Sensation also returns gradually as inflammation reduces and the nerve begins to recover. However, the exact recovery timeline depends on the severity of the nerve damage and the duration of the symptoms.
How to Sleep After Radiofrequency Nerve Ablation?
After a radiofrequency ablation procedure, it is recommended that you sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees to minimize pressure on your lower spine. You can also sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs to keep your hips aligned. Moreover, avoid sleeping on your stomach and move slowly when getting out of bed to prevent irritation.
Can Stretching Help Reduce Numbness?
Yes, stretching can reduce numbness by improving blood circulation and relieving nerve pressure. Additionally, gentle, controlled stretches increase mobility in the tissues, reduce tension, and support a gradual return of normal activity. However, perform movements slowly and avoid any sudden or forceful motions that could irritate nerves or exacerbate symptoms.
Is Lingering Numbness a Sign That the Herniated Disc Hasn’t Healed?
No, lingering numbness does not always mean the herniated disc hasn’t healed. This numbness may indicate that the treated nerve is still recovering from pressure or irritation, even if the disc itself has stabilized. However, if the numbness persists longer than a few weeks and worsens, you should visit our doctors to relieve nerve compression.
Can Scar Tissue From a Herniated Disc Cause Numbness?
Yes, scar tissue from a herniated disc may lead to numbness. After a disc injury or surgery, fibrous tissue may form around the affected nerves. This scar tissue can compress or irritate nerves, leading to persistent pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. In some cases, numbness improves gradually as inflammation decreases and the body heals.
Can Anti-Inflammatory Diets Help Improve Numbness?
Yes, an anti-inflammatory diet helps reduce numbness by decreasing inflammation around irritated nerves. For example, foods rich in omega-3, antioxidants, and vitamins can support nerve health. Similarly, consuming fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds in your meals can further promote nerve recovery.
Can Nerve Regeneration Medications Help With Persistent Numbness?
Yes, nerve regeneration medications help with persistent numbness in some cases. These medications, such as specific neuropathic pain agents or supplements, support cellular repair, improve nerve pain signaling, and reduce numbness. However, their effectiveness depends on the extent of nerve damage and the underlying cause of the condition.
