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The advantages and disadvantages of radiofrequency treatment for chronic back pain
Radiofrequency neurotomy, also called radiofrequency ablation or lesion, is a procedure that intentionally injures nerves to prevent pain signals from being sent to and processed by the brain. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure reserved for patients with chronic pain who have not found relief with more conservative treatment methods. Radiofrequency treatments can be used for patients with pain due to a degenerative disc, facet joint, or sacroiliac (SI) joint. Through fluoroscopy, an electrode is inserted into the body and placed on the target nerve. Once the electrode is correctly positioned, it is heated to create a lesion on the nerve. One …
The advantages and disadvantages of radiofrequency treatment for chronic back pain
Radiofrequency neurotomy, also called radiofrequency ablation or lesion, is a procedure that intentionally injures nerves to prevent pain signals from being sent to and processed by the brain. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure reserved for patients with chronic pain who have not found relief with more conservative treatment methods.
Radiofrequency treatments can be used for patients with pain due to a degenerative disc, facet joint, or sacroiliac (SI) joint. Through fluoroscopy, an electrode is inserted into the body and placed on the target nerve. Once the electrode is correctly positioned, it is heated to create a lesion on the nerve. A newer, more advanced form of the process involves a cooling phase; This increases the impact area of the electrode and may be useful on certain areas of the body.
This treatment is not a permanent solution; Over time, the nerves heal and the pain returns. It is important to remember that radiofrequency is a treatment that treats the symptom of pain and not the original cause of it. Review the following pros and cons before deciding whether to receive this procedure.
Advantages
For people who are unable to perform everyday activities or work due to pain, a procedure such as radiofrequency neurotomy can be extremely positive. If effective, the procedure may allow people to return to work and perform basic daily activities such as walking without excessive pain.
Results from radiofrequency treatment can last up to a year or two, making it more attractive than steroid injections, another common treatment for back and SI joint pain.
Neurotomy is a less invasive procedure than other surgical methods for eliminating joint and disc pain, especially fusion surgery. Fusion creates a rigid segment between the vertebrae or pelvic bone and sacrum to protect painful movements from instability. The procedure comes with a high price and a number of risks, including accelerated degeneration of facet joints and discs near the fused joint. Radiofrequency lesions may provide sufficient pain relief to avoid more invasive surgery.
Research shows that this procedure is helpful to some degree for about 70% of those who receive it and that it can reduce dependence on expensive and dangerous painkillers. See http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/studies-published-in-pain-medicine-demonstrate-effectiveness-of-minimal-invasive-cooled-radiofrequency-treatment-for-low-back-pain-194185701. html for a collection of research supporting the use of cooled radiofrequency for discogenic and SI joint pain.
Disadvantages
Radiofrequency lesions make pain worse before it gets better. The first week after the procedure may be difficult due to local pain and swelling. Some patients who have received the treatment report that it may take a month or two to see positive effects.
Some patients who receive the treatment never experience relief. Some may even experience more pain if the procedure was performed incorrectly and the target nerve was incompletely damaged. This would cause it to increase its pain signal output. See http://www.spine-health.com/forum/treatment/pain-management/rf-neurotomy-ablation-has-worked-you-how-long-did-it-take-notice-res Read reviews of the procedure from a number of people who have received it.
It must be remembered that this treatment is not a cure; it just masks the pain. Whether your pain is caused by a degenerated disc, facet joint, or SI joint, it is important to continue efforts to resolve the underlying problem. Research alternative medicine to find treatment options you may not be aware of. Use your pain-free or reduced pain time after radiofrequency treatment to continue exercise therapy and strengthen your core muscles that support joints and discs.
Radiofrequency neurotomy may be an appropriate treatment for you if pain affects your quality of life. However, the focus of any chronic pain management plan should be on addressing the cause of the pain, not just masking the symptom.
Inspired by Amee LaTour