What is Pulsed Radiofrequency (RF) of a Peripheral Nerve?

Pulsed Radiofrequency (RF) is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve chronic nerve-related pain by targeting specific peripheral nerves outside the spine. It involves applying a gentle electrical field to the nerve in short, timed pulses, reducing abnormal pain signals without damaging the nerve.

This technique helps desensitise overactive or irritated nerves that may be contributing to
persistent pain.

When is it Used?

Pulsed RF is commonly used for chronic pain in specific regions, such as:

  • Shoulder (suprascapular nerve)
  • Groin or thigh (ilioinguinal or genitofemoral nerve)
  • Chest wall (intercostal nerves)
  • Lower leg and foot (saphenous or sural nerve)
  • Scar or post-surgical nerve pain (neuroma-related pain)
  • Postherpetic neuralgia (shingles-related nerve pain)


It may be considered when nerve blocks or injections offer only temporary relief, or when medications are insufficient or cause side effects.

How Does It Work?

The procedure uses a specialised needle and probe placed near the painful nerve. Pulsed RF delivers intermittent electrical stimulation at a low temperature (around 42°C). This interferes with the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals while preserving normal function like touch or movement.


The goal is to "reset" the nerve’s pain processing without permanently damaging it.

What Happens During the Procedure?

  • Positioning: You will lie comfortably, depending on the nerve being treated.
  • Local Anaesthetic: The skin is cleaned and numbed with a small injection.
  • Guidance: Using ultrasound or X-ray imaging, the needle is positioned close to the target nerve.
  • Testing: A mild electrical pulse is used to confirm the correct location (you may feel a tingling or tapping sensation).
  • Treatment: Pulsed RF is delivered over several minutes.


The procedure usually lasts 30–45 minutes. You will be monitored afterwards and can usually go home the same day.

What to Expect After Treatment

  • Mild soreness or bruising at the needle site may occur for a few days.
  • Some people notice improvement within a few days; for others, it may take up to 2–3 weeks.
  • Pain relief may last for several months and the procedure can be safely repeated if needed.


You can usually resume normal activities the next day, depending on your response.

Benefits

  • Non-destructive and nerve-sparing
  • Precisely targeted to a specific nerve
  • Minimally invasive, no stitches or incisions
  • May reduce the need for long-term medications
  • Performed as an outpatient procedure

Risks and Side Effects

Although Pulsed RF is generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Temporary increase in pain
  • Localised bruising or swelling
  • Temporary numbness or tingling
  • Infection at the injection site (rare)
  • Very rarely, nerve injury or prolonged altered sensation


Our clinicians use image guidance and sterile technique to ensure the highest level of safety.

Before the Procedure

Please inform us if:

  • You are taking blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, apixaban, clopidogrel)
  • You have any allergies to medications or antiseptics
  • You are pregnant or might be pregnant
  • You have an implantable electrical device (e.g., pacemaker)


Please arrange for someone to drive you home.

When to Contact Us

Seek medical advice if you experience:

  • Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge at the injection site
  • Fever or chills
  • New or worsening numbness or weakness
  • Difficulty with bladder or bowel function