Whiplash and related spinal injuries from car accidents can lead to long-term pain that doesn't always show up on imaging—and doesn't go away on its own. At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we specialize in diagnosing and treating these injuries with advanced, evidence-based procedures like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). If you're still hurting weeks or months after a car crash, RFA could be the key to getting your life back.
How Does RFA Help After a Whiplash Injury?
Whiplash often results in injury to the facet joints in the cervical or lumbar spine. These joints are rich in nerve endings and can become chronically inflamed after trauma. Even if your X-rays or MRIs look "normal," pain can persist due to ongoing irritation of the medial branch nerves that supply these joints.
RFA targets these nerves, using controlled heat to stop them from sending pain signals. It doesn't affect strength or movement—just the pain.
Ideal Candidates for RFA After a Crash
RFA may be right for you if:
- •You've had ongoing neck or low back pain for 12 weeks or longer after an accident
- •Imaging is normal or shows mild-to-moderate facet degeneration, but pain remains
- •You experienced temporary pain relief after medial branch nerve blocks
- •Physical therapy and medications haven't provided lasting relief
We often see excellent outcomes when RFA is performed after diagnostic blocks confirm the pain source.
What the Research Says
RFA is well-supported by medical literature for treating chronic spinal pain, including pain after motor vehicle accidents:
- •Cervical Facet RFA: Studies show significant improvement in pain and function after RFA in patients with chronic neck pain following whiplash. Relief often lasts 6–18 months and can be repeated as needed.
- •Lumbar Facet RFA: A 2020 review found that patients with post-traumatic low back pain who responded to diagnostic blocks had a high likelihood of long-term benefit from RFA.
- •Insurance and Legal Acceptance: RFA is a commonly accepted and medically necessary treatment under most auto insurance and PI policies if criteria are met.
Why Choose Horizon Spine & Pain for Whiplash Injuries?
We work closely with your PI attorney and ensure all treatments are:
- •Well-documented and medically necessary
- •Supported by diagnostic testing
- •Focused on function and recovery, not just symptom relief
Our treatment model includes:
- •Detailed Evaluation – To isolate the true pain generator (facet joints, nerves, discs).
- •Targeted Nerve Blocks – To confirm whether facet joints are the cause.
- •RFA – To provide long-lasting relief if blocks are successful.
- •Multimodal Care – Including physical therapy, medications, and minimally invasive options.
Stop Suffering. Start Healing.
If you're still in pain after an accident, you don't have to live with it. RFA is a safe, effective, and repeatable treatment option that doesn't involve opioids or surgery—and we'll help guide you every step of the way.
Contact Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah
- •15 S. 1000 E. #250, Payson, UT 84651
- •385-298-1008
- •frontdesk@horizonpainutah.com
- •horizonpainutah.com
- •Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Lunch: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)