Can nerve burning be effective for alleviating back pain?

In certain cases, nerve burning is effective for alleviating chronic back pain, states NBC Los Angeles. Individuals' specific conditions and medical histories help determine if they are candidates for the procedure. For instance, elderly patients are often not well enough for invasive back surgery, so burning is a safer option.

During Cooled Radiofrequency Treatment, a doctor burns the nerves involved in relaying pain signals to the brain, explains NBC Los Angeles. The procedure requires an instrument that uses radio waves to destroy nerve tissue. The patient receives only local anesthetic for the procedure, plus a sedative. The patient's pain goes away immediately, and relief lasts for about one year.