Your posting is Very informative, thank you for the details! In early February I had 4 bilateral facet injections in my lower back and for 7 days prior I'd had to cease use of my long time pain med (Diclofenac/Celebrex) so it was clear I definitely experienced at least a few days of nearly complete pain relief after the injections but unable to say how long it lasted as a week later I was down with the flu followed a week later by hospitalization for a severe GI bleed due to my NSAID back medication. So I found myself in worse pain than before since the injections didn't work and I could no longer take my meds. In a consult with my spine Dr he felt that since I'd gotten *some* relief from the first round, that a 2nd was worthwhile. Had the same sites done in early May and this time the final injection hurt like hell but no lasting effects once the local wore off.
I've been frustrated by how slowly things are moving, other than our short summer season and all the things I'd Like to be able to be doing 🙁 , but I'm now scheduled for the RFA on July 1st. The prep notes sent to me say I'll be given 'conscious sedation'. Was this what you were given? The prep notes also warn about driving afterwards, which seems like a longer time than for the injections. I have another appt. to travel to the following day and not sure that I should.
I am really hoping that RFA will be my saving grace as I'm not a surgical candidate due to osteoporosis, age and the degree of scoliosis. I appreciate any tips and feedback and will continue reading others experiences. Knowledge is Power!