Radiofrequency Therapy (RF)

 

RF therapy is taken directly from human medicine and has been modified by Dr. Revenaugh for use in horses. It is an alternative therapy to a neurectomy (“nerving”) of the foot. RF therapy uses radio frequencies to inactivate the portion of the nerves associated with pain in the foot region. However, unlike a neurectomy, which also removes sensation of the foot region, RF leaves the sensation associated nerves intact. In other words, RF acts selectively on "A delta C" nerve fibers associated with chronic pain, while leaving sensation and acute pain fibers intact. The RF procedure is also less invasive than a neurectomy. It is performed under standing sedation with two small incisions. RF therefore offers a safer and less invasive alternative to a neurectomy in select cases. RF therapy can also be used for treatment of soft tissue injuries.