Radiofrequency Denervation and Brain Structure, Function, and Connectivity in Chronic Low Back Pain Patients

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating changes in brain structure and activity following radiofrequency denervation (RFD) treatment for chronic low back pain (cLBP). This observational study focuses on patients with moderate to severe nociceptive low back pain and aims to report the extent of brain changes after RFD, identify changes unique to this treatment, and improve understanding of how RFD affects the brain. The findings could help predict which patients may benefit most from RFD and support future pain treatment studies. Participants will undergo three brain MRI scans at different times: before the diagnostic nerve block (baseline), after the diagnostic medial branch nerve block (MBB), and three months after receiving RFD. The study follows patients through their usual clinical pathway, starting with the MBB to determine suitability for RFD. Alongside imaging, patients will complete questionnaires about their pain, disability, and quality of life. During the study, participants will have clinical assessments and brain scans at each of the three time points to monitor changes over time. Researchers will measure resting state functional connectivity of the default mode network three months after treatment as the primary outcome. The study involves monitoring pain levels and health-related quality of life to better understand the effects of RFD. Participation includes informed consent and requires patients to be stable on current pain medications and able to communicate in English.

Radiofrequency Denervation and Brain Imaging