Using radiofrequency ablation to treat low back pain
Official title: A Superiority Trial of Radiofrequency Ablation for Low Back Pain
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10977408 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well a gentle procedure called lumbar radiofrequency ablation can help people with chronic low back pain caused by issues in their lower back joints, aiming to provide lasting pain relief and better daily function for those who are likely to benefit from it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,364,600 |
| NIH project number | 1U01AR084723-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977408 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain specifically related to the lumbar facet joints.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low back pain not associated with the lumbar facet joints or those who do not respond positively to local anesthetic medial branch blocks may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of lumbar radiofrequency ablation (LRFA), a minimally invasive procedure, for patients suffering from chronic low back pain (CLBP) that is specifically linked to the lumbar facet joints. The study aims to improve patient outcomes by applying a thermal lesion to the nerves responsible for pain, potentially leading to significant pain relief and improved functionality. Participants will be carefully selected based on their responses to local anesthetic medial branch blocks, ensuring that only those most likely to benefit from the procedure are included. The research will follow stringent guidelines to optimize the technique and patient selection, addressing previous concerns about the effectiveness of LRFA.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide substantial pain relief and improved quality of life for patients with chronic low back pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation for low back pain, indicating that this approach may yield better outcomes with improved techniques and patient selection.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suri, Pradeep — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Suri, Pradeep
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.