Radiofrequency Ablation in San Antonio and Schertz, TX
Living with chronic neck or back pain? ReleviiMed's board-certified pain specialist Dr. Manuel Ybarra offers minimally invasive RFA nerve ablation to patients across San Antonio and Schertz, TX — delivering lasting relief of 6 to 12 months or more.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive pain management procedure that uses precisely controlled heat energy — generated by radio waves — to disrupt the nerve signals responsible for transmitting chronic pain to the brain. By targeting and deactivating these specific pain-carrying nerves, RFA delivers lasting relief without the need for surgery or ongoing medication dependence.
The procedure is performed under image guidance (fluoroscopy) to ensure pinpoint accuracy. A thin, insulated needle is inserted near the target nerve, and once confirmed in the correct position, radiofrequency energy heats the needle tip — creating a small lesion that interrupts pain signaling.
Unlike cortisone injections, which reduce inflammation temporarily, RFA actually modifies the nerve itself — making it one of the most durable non-surgical pain relief options available today, with relief commonly lasting 6 to 12 months or longer.
Conditions We Treat with Radiofrequency Ablation
Facet Joint Pain
The facet joints run along the back of your spine, allowing bending and flexion. Over time, these joints become inflamed or arthritic — causing persistent neck, mid-back, or lower back pain. RFA targeting the medial branch nerves is one of the most well-studied applications of this technology. If a facet joint injection gave you temporary relief, RFA is often the logical next step for longer-lasting results.
Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease
Arthritis causes progressive breakdown of cartilage and joint structures throughout the spine and sacroiliac joints. RFA interrupts the nerve pathways transmitting arthritic pain — reducing dependence on daily medications and restoring function.
Chronic Neck Pain
Cervical facet arthritis, whiplash, and degenerative disc disease are common RFA indications. When the medial branch nerves of the cervical spine are targeted, patients often see dramatic improvement in range of motion, sleep quality, and daily comfort. Learn more about neck pain →
Chronic Lower Back Pain
Lumbar facet joints and the sacroiliac joint are the most common pain generators treated with RFA in San Antonio. If medications, physical therapy, or injections haven't provided lasting relief, RFA offers an evidence-based path forward. Learn more about back pain →
The RFA Procedure:
What to Expect at ReleviiMed
1. Consultation & Diagnostic Evaluation
Dr. Ybarra reviews your history, imaging, and prior treatments to confirm RFA is right for your pain source. A diagnostic nerve block is often performed first to confirm the target nerve.
2 . Pre-Procedure Preparation
Avoid eating or drinking a few hours prior. Our team will review your medications and provide clear prep guidelines. No hospital stay required — this is outpatient care.
3. The Procedure
Performed with fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance for real-time precision. The area is numbed with local anesthetic. Dr. Ybarra advances the RFA needle to the target nerve. Takes 30–60 minutes. Sedation is available.
4. Recovery
Go home the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site is normal for a few days. Plan for someone to drive you home.
5. Duration of Relief
Full pain relief typically develops over 1–3 weeks. Relief commonly lasts 6 to 12 months, often longer. The procedure can be safely repeated when nerves regenerate.
Why Choose ReleviiMed?
Why San Antonio and Schertz Patients Choose ReleviiMed for RFA
Fellowship-Trained Expertise
Dr. Manuel Ybarra is board-certified in both Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, fellowship-trained at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, and a recipient of the Kaitlin Selmeczi, M.D. Award for humanism and compassion in patient care.
Image-Guided Precision
Every RFA procedure uses fluoroscopic guidance — ensuring the radiofrequency needle is placed with exactness for maximum safety and effectiveness.
Personalized, Compassionate Care
Our close-knit team treats every patient as an individual. We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and build a plan tailored specifically to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is radiofrequency ablation painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. The area is numbed with local anesthetic before any needles are placed, and sedation is available. Post-procedure soreness is common for a few days but resolves quickly.
Am I a good candidate for RFA?
Ideal candidates have chronic neck or back pain from facet joints who haven't found lasting relief from medications, therapy, or injections. A diagnostic nerve block is usually done first to confirm effectiveness. Dr. Ybarra will evaluate you during your consultation.
How long does the procedure take?
Most procedures take 30–60 minutes depending on how many spinal levels are treated. It's outpatient — you go home the same day.
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