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Radiofrequency Ablation Specialist

Keith Schmidt, MD -  - Pain Management

Keith Schmidt, MD

Pain Management & Chronic Pain Specialist located in Hoffman Estates, IL & Carol Stream, IL

Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain, which affects their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Finding an effective treatment to alleviate your chronic pain can leave you feeling frustrated and defeated. Experienced interventional pain management specialist Keith Schmidt, MD, at Ascension Comprehensive Pain Management Program, which has offices in Hoffman Estates, and Carol Stream, Illinois, offers many innovative treatments to relieve your pain, including radiofrequency ablation. To schedule a consultation to learn more about radiofrequency ablation, call the office or book online today.

Radiofrequency Ablation Q & A

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation, also called a rhizotomy, is a minimally invasive procedure that alleviates chronic pain conditions. During the process, Dr. Schmidt uses heat energy to ablate (destroy) the nerve responsible for your pain.  

By destroying the nerve, Dr. Schmidt stops the pain signal to your brain to alleviate the discomfort. 

Dr. Schmidt is a triple board-certified pain management specialist who’s developed a reputation for helping patients get the pain relief they need when other providers have failed. If you have a chronic pain condition affecting your quality of life, contact Ascension Comprehensive Pain Management Program today. 

What pain conditions benefit from radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation benefits many chronic pain conditions. Dr. Schmidt may recommend the minimally invasive procedure if you’re suffering from chronic:

  • Low back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Arthritis pain
  • Joint pain
  • Peripheral nerve pain

He may only recommend the minimally invasive procedure if other less invasive treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, or epidural injections, fail to provide adequate relief. 

What happens during radiofrequency ablation?

Dr. Schmidt develops individualized radiofrequency ablation treatment plans specific to your needs. He reviews the plan at your consultation so you know what to expect during the procedure. The entire process usually takes less than an hour. 

To minimize discomfort during your radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Schmidt first numbs the area with a local anesthetic. He then uses X-ray guided imaging to insert a hollow needle into the desired location and passes a radiofrequency current through the needle to ablate the nerve.

After your radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Schmidt sends you to the recovery area for monitoring before discharging you and sending you home. He recommends you arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure. 

What can I expect after radiofrequency ablation?

Most patients resume their usual activities within three days following their radiofrequency ablation. You may notice an improvement in your pain immediately following the procedure. Some patients may take up to two weeks before experiencing the pain-relieving benefits.

Radiofrequency ablation may provide pain relief anywhere from nine months to up to two years. Dr. Schmidt schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor you and your pain and adjust your plan as needed.

To schedule your consultation with the pain management expert, call Ascension Comprehensive Pain Management Program, or book online today.