Shoulder Radiofrequency Ablation

What is shoulder radiofrequency ablation?

 

Shoulder radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses carefully controlled heat to interrupt pain signals travelling through the sensory nerves supplying the shoulder joint.

​

The procedure is performed using ultrasound guidance to accurately position specialised needles alongside the target nerves while avoiding nearby blood vessels and important structures.

​

The treated nerves transmit pain but do not control the main muscles responsible for shoulder movement.

​

What is the suprascapular nerve?

 

The suprascapular nerve provides sensation to a significant portion of the shoulder joint and is an important contributor to chronic shoulder pain.

​

Although the nerve also supplies two small shoulder muscles, radiofrequency treatment is performed on its sensory branches or at carefully selected anatomical locations to minimise any effect on muscle function.

​

Depending on the cause of your pain, treatment may also include other articular nerves around the shoulder.

​

Who may benefit?

 

Shoulder radiofrequency ablation may be appropriate for carefully selected patients with:

• Glenohumeral osteoarthritis

• Persistent shoulder pain despite physiotherapy

• Pain that has returned after shoulder injections

• Rotator cuff arthropathy

• Persistent pain after shoulder surgery (selected patients)

• Patients who are not suitable for shoulder replacement surgery

• Patients wishing to delay surgery where appropriate

​

Not all causes of shoulder pain respond to radiofrequency treatment, so careful assessment is essential.

​

How do we determine whether I'm suitable?

 

The first step is identifying the source of your shoulder pain.

​

Assessment usually includes:

• A detailed discussion of your symptoms

• Shoulder examination

• Review of previous X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans

• Consideration of alternative causes, including pain referred from the neck

• Discussion of previous treatments and their effectiveness

​

In some patients, diagnostic nerve blocks may be used to help predict whether radiofrequency treatment is likely to be beneficial.

​

What happens during the procedure?

 

The procedure is usually performed as a day-case under local anaesthetic.

​

It typically takes 30–45 minutes.

​

The procedure involves:

1. Positioning you comfortably.

2. Cleaning the skin and administering local anaesthetic.

3. Using ultrasound guidance to identify the target nerves.

4. Positioning specialised radiofrequency needles accurately.

5. Performing stimulation testing where appropriate.

6. Applying controlled radiofrequency energy.

7. Applying a small dressing before discharge home.

​

Most patients return home shortly afterwards.

​

Recovery

 

It is common to experience mild soreness around the treatment site for several days.

 

Most patients can:

• Use the arm normally for light activities immediately afterwards

• Return to normal daily activities within a few days

• Gradually increase exercise as discomfort settles

​

Pain relief usually develops over several weeks.

​

Continuing shoulder exercises and physiotherapy is recommended to maximise long-term benefit.

​

What are the benefits?

 

For carefully selected patients, shoulder radiofrequency ablation may:

• Reduce shoulder pain

• Improve sleep

• Improve shoulder movement

• Make physiotherapy more comfortable

• Improve everyday activities

• Reduce reliance on pain medication

• Delay the need for surgery in selected patients

​

Relief varies between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.

​

What are the risks?

 

Shoulder radiofrequency ablation is generally considered a safe procedure when performed using ultrasound guidance.

​

Possible risks include:

• Temporary soreness

• Bruising

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Temporary increase in pain

• Temporary numbness

• Failure to improve symptoms

• Very rarely, injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels

​

These risks will be discussed fully during your consultation before treatment.

​

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is this the same as a shoulder injection?

 

No.

A shoulder injection delivers medication around or into the joint to reduce inflammation. Radiofrequency ablation interrupts pain signals from the nerves supplying the shoulder and may provide longer-lasting pain relief in suitable patients.

​

Will radiofrequency cure shoulder arthritis?

 

No.

The procedure does not repair arthritis or reverse joint damage. It aims to reduce pain and improve function.

​

How long does pain relief last?

 

Many patients experience pain relief for several months, although the duration varies between individuals.

​

Will I lose strength in my shoulder?

 

The aim of treatment is to reduce pain while preserving shoulder function. Careful patient selection and accurate ultrasound-guided technique help minimise the risk of affecting muscle strength.

​

Can the treatment be repeated?

 

Yes.

If you experienced good pain relief previously and your symptoms return, repeat treatment may be appropriate after reassessment.

​

Will I still need physiotherapy?

 

Usually, yes.

Reducing pain often makes rehabilitation more effective and helps improve long-term shoulder function.

​

Why choose Dr David Crabtree?

 

As a Consultant in Pain Medicine, I specialise in diagnosing and treating persistent musculoskeletal pain using evidence-based, image-guided procedures.

​

Careful diagnosis is essential before recommending shoulder radiofrequency ablation. My aim is to identify the underlying cause of your pain and recommend the treatment most likely to improve your comfort, movement and quality of life.

 

All procedures are performed using ultrasound guidance to maximise precision and safety.

​

Ready to explore your treatment options?

 

If persistent shoulder pain is affecting your sleep, work or ability to enjoy everyday activities, a consultation can help determine whether shoulder radiofrequency ablation or another treatment is the most appropriate option for you.

​

​

​