I had a laminectomy L4-5 w/fusion 12/2022. Per my MRI I have a lot of spondylitis, narrowing up/down my lumbar spine.

I have had 2 epidurals with relief from the last one in early January. I was just scheduled this a.m. for an ablation at the sacroiliac joints. I am afraid of this!! I want an epidural, I’m afraid of doing something so permanent as an ablation.

I’m also trying to find info on which is better - an ablation or a nerve stimulator. I’ve just found this website and this week found out about the doc wanting an ablation.

I am using straight Medicare with a supplemental plan - I’ve never paid a penny for anything health related. If MC is paying for something, it is definitely not experimental.

I would appeal the insurance company’s decision. This has been the standard of care for years. It’s just something I wasn’t interested in.

I’ve used a TENS unit both before and after surgery. It helped a bit, but wasn’t long lasting.

I was originally injured in 1979 - I was an RN. Had surgery in 1987. More or less o.k. Would occasionally have my back ‘go out’ for no reason. Now as a nurse practitioner, I have the ability to work around time off issues. This helps a bit w/the pain, only because my stress levels aren’t so high.

Good luck!