A radiofrequency denervation device (10) with a needle (12) and an electrode (20) for actuating an active portion (16) of the needle (12) to produce radiofrequency denervation of the sacroiliac joint. The needle (12) has a tip (14) with an inactive portion (24) and the radiofrequency active portion (16) for producing lesions in surrounding tissue. The active portion (16) and a portion of the inactive portion (24) are disposed in a helical formation concentric with a longitudinal axis of the needle (12). The helical formation communicates over an arcuate path with an angle of attack. A method of radiofrequency denervation can be performed by rotating the tip (14) of the needle (12) in a screw-like motion in a first rotational direction to achieve a position with the active portion (16) of the tip (14) substantially parallel to a surface of the sacrum and actuating the active portion (16) to produce a lesion. Repositioning and further lesioning can be achieved by selective rotation and actuation of the tip (14).
