How you prepare

To determine if you're a good candidate for radiofrequency neurotomy, your doctor may refer you to a pain specialist or order more tests.

For example, a test may be done to see if the nerves commonly targeted by the procedure are the same nerves responsible for your pain. A small amount of numbing medication is injected into the precise spots where the radiofrequency needles will go. If your pain significantly lessens, radiofrequency treatment at those spots may help you.

However, the doctor may determine a different procedure is needed to help your specific symptoms.