The Utilization of Radiofrequency Techniques for Upper Extremity Pain Management

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In the 1990s, radiofrequency ablation emerged as a novel therapeutic approach tool for pain alleviation that did not result in neurological harm. Radiofrequency techniques are emerging methods as a possible option for upper extremity pain management. Furthermore, joint pain can result from multiple etiologies, and the management can differ based on what joint is affected. With the various management methods available to treat joint pain, radiofrequency ablation could be an effective, minimally invasive, promising intervention. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to review the current and historical uses of radiofrequency in upper extremity pain compared to other management methods and to address the utilization of radiofrequency in upper extremity pain management. STUDY DESIGN: This is a narrative review of relevant studies on using radiofrequency techniques in upper extremity pain management. METHODS: On June 26, 2022, Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, ERIC, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched for relevant literature documenting the use of radiofrequency techniques in treating upper extremity pain. The terms “radiofrequency,” “pain,” “upper extremity,” “shoulder,” “elbow,” and “wrist” were used, resulting in 61 studies fitting the inclusion criteria. A narrative review was then undertaken. RESULTS: Radiofrequency ablation and its techniques are among the contemporary medical procedures that could be cost-effective solutions for patients suffering from chronic and postoperative pain. Its utilization for shoulder-related pain has been frequently studied, as it showed significant improvement with a high satisfaction rate as a solo procedure. When compared to intraarticular corticosteroid injections or local anesthetics, it was found to be more effective than local anesthetics. Although it did not appear superior to intraarticular corticosteroid injections, it had the advantage of infrequent repeat treatment. By comparison, studies involving the elbow and wrist showed promising results but were not as thorough as studies on the shoulder. Therefore, considering the possible side effects and complications, caution is warranted. LIMITATIONS: The paucity of articles available on its application to the elbow and wrist joints. More articles are necessary for the generalizability of the results. CONCLUSION: Radiofrequency techniques are a promising, minimally invasive procedure for controlling upper extremity pain. More studies on the topic, especially on elbow and wrist pain, are warranted for the generalizability of the results. KEY WORDS: Radiofrequency, pain management, upper extremity, shoulder, elbow, wrist, corticosteroid injection, local anesthetics