How likely is facet radiofrequency thermocoagulation to work for me?

If your treatment is being carried out because you’ve already had a facet joint injection of steroids and local anaesthetic that has relieved your pain, there is a higher chance that facet radiofrequency thermocoagulation will give you some pain relief. This is because the previous test injection has proved that your pain is coming from these joints.

If your consultant is using facet radiofrequency thermocoagulation without prior injections, the chance will be lower. Every individual will have a different response to treatment based on the cause of the pain, the level of their pain and their health history.