A neck ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat, often from radiofrequency waves, to disrupt specific nerves transmitting chronic neck pain signals. It aims to reduce discomfort when conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy haven’t provided adequate relief. This article outlines what to anticipate during the recovery process.
Immediate Post-Procedure Period
Immediately after a neck ablation, patients typically remain in a recovery area for 15 minutes to an hour, especially if sedation was used. Medical staff monitor vital signs to ensure safety. Patients must arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home, as driving is not permitted for at least 24 hours. Initial sensations at the injection site may include mild discomfort, soreness, or a sunburn-like feeling. Temporary numbness in the treated area can also occur.
Navigating Early Recovery
Once at home, tenderness, pain, or muscle spasms at the treatment site are common and may persist for several days to a week or two. A superficial burning pain or hypersensitivity, similar to a sunburn, typically resolves within 10 to 14 days. Temporary numbness or tingling in the neck area can also occur as nerves heal. Pain relief is often not immediate; it can take several days to up to three weeks for full effects, as treated nerves require time to cease transmitting signals.
Activity restrictions support proper healing and prevent complications. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or anything that places added strain on the neck for at least 24 hours, and often for a few days. Limit lifting over 5-10 pounds for the first week. While showering is usually permitted after 24 hours, avoid baths, hot tubs, or swimming for several days to prevent infection at the puncture sites.
Gentle movement is encouraged, but activities like hiking, bicycling, or jogging should be resumed gradually over the week. Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes with breaks can help manage soreness and swelling. Over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers can assist with discomfort. Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and flexibility.
Anticipating Long-Term Outcomes
Significant pain relief typically begins within two to three weeks after the procedure. The duration of pain relief varies, with many experiencing relief for several months to over a year, some even longer. The procedure manages pain by disrupting nerve signals, rather than curing the underlying condition.
Nerves can regenerate over time, meaning pain signals may eventually return. If pain recurs, the ablation procedure can be repeated. The interval between repeat procedures is typically at least six months to allow for nerve and tissue healing. Many patients benefit from repeat procedures to maintain pain relief as nerves regrow.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact a healthcare provider for certain signs and symptoms. Seek medical attention for severe or worsening pain not alleviated by prescribed medication. Report immediate signs of infection at the injection site, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus. Fever and chills also indicate a potential infection.
Prompt medical evaluation is needed for new or worsening neurological symptoms, including weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or hands. Any unexpected and concerning reactions, such as allergic reactions with rash, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing, also require immediate doctor contact. Seek medical advice if pain is worse than before the procedure and doesn’t improve after two weeks.