Radiofrequency ablation is a medical procedure in which radio waves are used to create heat and destroy part of the nerve. This procedure is used to destroy the endings of the small nerves that provide sensation to the facet joints. Once the nerve is destroyed, the pain caused by worn or painful facet joints is reduced or eliminated. This procedure is also sometimes referred to as RFA (short for radiofrequency ablation), rhizotomy, or neurotomy.