I had to appeal my insurance companies denial TWICE before they agreed to pay for the nerve block to see if it helps prior to the ablation. The second appeal was to an external review agency, and the doctor they hired agreed that this was the only thing left for them to try for my pain. It took almost 5 months from the time my doctor submitted the prior-authorization to the time I was able to have the block - but oh, the relief I had with the block!! I enjoyed the few hours I had pain-free!!! In August I had the ablation - I would say it took away about 80% of my pain, so I'm calling it a success. I'm now able to walk again and work out, which I hadn't been able to do for around 3 years or so prior to the ablation. Keep at it and good luck!