Does Thermal Lesioning treat the source of pain?

Thermal Lesioning changes pain signaling from a selected nerve. It does not correct structural problems such as arthritis, a disc issue, or a bone spur.

What helps a doctor choose the treatment target?

The pain pattern, physical examination, imaging findings, and response to a diagnostic nerve block can help identify a possible treatment target.

Can pain return after Thermal Lesioning?

Yes, pain can return if the treated nerve recovers or if another pain source becomes active. Follow-up helps assess the person’s changing symptoms.

Glossary

What Is Thermal Lesioning?

Thermal Lesioning is a pain treatment method that applies controlled heat to targeted nerve tissue. The heat changes how the nerve sends pain signals to the brain. Doctors often use this method during radiofrequency ablation to treat pain linked to specific spinal joints or other nerves identified during an evaluation.

Quick Facts About Thermal Lesioning

Key Takeaways About Thermal Lesioning

Heat changes nerve signaling at a carefully targeted site.
Doctors often use it during radiofrequency ablation.
Thermal Lesioning is not the same as steroid injection.

How Thermal Lesioning Works

Thermal Lesioning uses heat from a small treatment probe to affect a targeted nerve. The probe reaches the treatment site through a needle. The doctor uses image guidance to help place the probe near the intended nerve.

Related glossary terms: Facet Joint, Image Guidance, Neuropathic Pain.

During Radiofrequency Ablation, the probe creates controlled heat at the nerve. The treated nerve may send fewer pain signals after the procedure. Doctors select the target based on the pain pattern, examination findings, and results from diagnostic nerve blocks.

Thermal Lesioning does not repair a joint, disc, or bone. It changes nerve signaling at a selected site. Pain can return if the nerve recovers or if another source of pain develops.

From the Premier Injury Specialists team

When we assess Thermal Lesioning, we connect the planned target to the person’s pain pattern and examination. Our team also reviews the response to diagnostic blocks before considering Radiofrequency Ablation. This helps us focus treatment on a nerve that appears linked to the reported pain.

Thermal Lesioning in Practice: A Real-World Example

A person with back pain from irritated facet joints may receive diagnostic medial branch blocks. If those blocks provide meaningful temporary relief, Radiofrequency Ablation with Thermal Lesioning may target the related medial branch nerves.