I had a nerve ablation about 3 years ago. I went to a reputable pain clinic. The doctor started with physical therapy and when that did not help he agreed to the oblation. I had a MRI showing at least 1 nerve damaged by the spine. The report used a special word to describe the injury; it meant the type of nerve injury likely to cause difficult pain. The oblation was guided by some type of x ray or scan in real time. The procedure was a success, even 3 years later. Good Luck.