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Experience with Radio Frequency Ablation procedures?

Spine Health | Last Active: Dec 29, 2022 | Replies (97)

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@betterway

I have SI Joint Pain and have tried multiple steroid Injections with no relief. I did have relief with the test injections prior to the Ablation. Unfortunately, the test injections wear off in a very short time hours. The Ablation burns the nerves and the pain during the burnings are intense. I was able to tolerate it still it was tough. Afterward It was like the other injections 15 minutes recovery, and I was able to walk as before, I did not notice any immediate change in my pain level. I did as I was instructed ice and rest. As with the other injections next few days pain increased. Three days later I was back at the Dr's for follow up. No Change. After about a week the pain began to go down. Still was in the same pain as before the Ablation. Was told by the Nurse it could take a while for the nerve to quit. A month Later back at the Dr's office. Still in pain. Can I tell you how sad I was? Dr said sometimes it takes a few months for the nerve to quit, A month later having a better day than some. I was thinking maybe it was starting to work. Of course, I'm doing little to nothing every day. Virtually on bed rest except for 1 or 2 hours. Went outside and using the electric blower cleared some leave from the yard, deck, and patio. Feeling pretty good about having accomplished something. The night was rough as usual next morning same pain as always. So, now what. Do it again the Ablation that is I don't know I have another Dr's appt soon. The emotional toll is as tough as the physical pain. Research says right now I am in the 30% that don't have success with Ablation. Give me a break, really.

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Replies to "I have SI Joint Pain and have tried multiple steroid Injections with no relief. I did..."

I too am scheduled for S1 ablation. I have both ostoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Had ablation for L5 as doctor believed that was where the pain originated. Did not work, so now he is doing the S1. Said if this did not work there is nothing else. So many comments here mentioned "get ahead " of the pain. My question is what are each of you using for the pain? I use Tramodol.

HI betterway: just seeing your post. Wondering if you've had another RFA and if it helped? I'm considering having it done but, like your experience, not convinced it will provide any lasting benefit. I have been dealing with degenerative lumbar spine and failed knee replacement. Fortunately, pain is manageable, but like you I am unable to do much physically. Certainly understand the emotional toll aspect as I feel the same and sometimes I just stop trying to figure it all out. One spine doc told me I may have to live with it. After many years, I think he is right.