At Scott Wagner Integrated Medicine in Charlottesville, VA, we treat sacroiliac (SI) joint pain with a focus on precision and function. SI joint pain develops when inflammation or nerve irritation disrupts the connection between the spine and pelvis. Patients often report deep lower back pain, buttock pain, or discomfort that worsens with standing, walking, or transitions from sitting to standing. Accurate diagnosis matters, so we confirm the SI joint as the pain generator through a thorough exam and diagnostic injections before recommending interventional care.
When conservative therapies fail to provide lasting relief, radiofrequency ablation offers a highly targeted option that addresses pain at its source without unnecessary tissue damage.
How Radiofrequency Ablation Works
Radiofrequency ablation treats SI joint pain by interrupting specific sensory nerves that carry pain signals. We use advanced imaging guidance to place a specialized probe precisely alongside the targeted nerves. The probe delivers controlled thermal energy that disables only the nerve fibers responsible for pain transmission.
This approach remains extremely targeted. The radiofrequency ablation method only destorys tissue that impairs function or mobility while preserving surrounding muscles, ligaments, and healthy nerves. Because we address the exact pain pathway, patients often experience meaningful relief without altering joint structure or stability. Radiofrequency ablation does not mask symptoms; it quiets the pain signal itself.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
We perform radiofrequency ablation as an outpatient procedure. Most visits last under an hour. Patients typically remain awake with local anesthetic and light sedation, which allows comfort while maintaining safety and accuracy.
Recovery time stays relatively short. Many patients resume light activity within 24 to 48 hours. Mild soreness at the treatment site can occur for several days, but it usually resolves quickly. As the treated nerves stop transmitting pain signals, improvement often develops over one to three weeks. Relief can last several months or longer, depending on individual healing and activity levels. When nerves regenerate over time, repeat treatment remains an option if symptoms return.
A Targeted Path Back to Mobility
We design care plans that prioritize function, movement, and long-term relief. Radiofrequency ablation fits seamlessly into an integrated approach that may also include physical therapy, movement optimization, and lifestyle guidance. Our goal remains simple: reduce pain while helping patients return to daily activities with confidence.
Schedule a Consultation in Charlottesville, VA
If SI joint pain limits your mobility, targeted treatment may help. Contact Scott Wagner Integrated Medicine in Charlottesville, VA at 434-978-4888 to learn whether radiofrequency ablation fits your care plan and to schedule an evaluation.