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Experience with Radio Frequency Ablation procedures?
Hello. First, I should mention that this is my first post to the group.
I have had neuropathic pain issues in my feet for many years made worse by surgeries that have resulted in scar tissue that has formed around the nerves. Over the years I have become diabetic (Type 2), although, it has always been considered well controlled. However, I recently had a skin biopsy performed which indicated that I did not have the clinical definition of neuropathy since the nerve cell counts were well within normal ranges. The biopsy did show "small anoxal swellings in the epidermis and sub epidermis." My doctor said this condition is often a forerunner of nerve cell loss and is correlated to patients experiencing burning pain. Ultrasound scans have also found scar tissue in the areas that I experience the burning nerve pain.
I am hoping to hear from anyone who has tried one of the Radio Frequency wave ablation procedures to reduce neuropathic foot pain or knows of any literature on the subject.
Thanks
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I had disc replacements and cervical fusion. It has helped quite a bit. I would say around 75% normal function. The neurosurgeon who operated said I would be lucky to reach 70% but he could not guarantee anything because I had it for so long. I am not in agony like I once was but it still bothers me only a daily basis.
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1 ReactionSorry, it had to be your neck. I have lost most of my cushions, so my neck cracks and pops. Ablation helps with the pain but my muscles are not tight anymore, even with exercises. So my head always wants to lean forward so I am looking at my feet. It is hard to keep it up straight. At night I roll a towel and put it under my chin, so my head is upright and it takes the pressure off my spine. I try to keep my head upright but it goes forward and I do not realize it is. Tried PT but it did not help much unless I would go twice a week forever. Ice packs work to help it feel better but can not walk around with ice all the time. So I just live with it. We just need to stay healthy and safe.KLH
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1 ReactionI had the ablation for SI Joint Pain. It has not solved the pain problem. The test injections were "successful" so I am surprised the Ablation has not been. The pain goes down as long as I don't move and stay in the reclined position. Have gained weight from no exercise. Casual walking actually seems to help. I can do some of the PT exercises not all. The knee to chest one is painful. I don't know what's next. Not depressed but disheartened yea that. It's hard to go to the doctor and tell him again about the pain "Month after Month". Just want it to stop and have some ability to do things, anything, I was very physically active before, the change is difficult to adjust to.
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2 ReactionsI have degeneration and numerous facet joint problems at all levels of my thoracic spine and am having a radiofrequency ablation on Jan. 5, 2022 at T10-11. The two nerve blocks required to do the RFA worked for the time required. Please tell me someone has had successful relief from getting an ablation. I hate to go into this procedure without knowing it benefitted anyone. Thank you.
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1 ReactionI have had Radio on c4-c6 and L4-L6 (3 or 4 times each). They lasted from 2-3 years. But now I have two have them redone within two years for Medicare to pay and if past two years then you start all over again. That is with two facets first and then ok for Radio. This is new since the end of 2021. The ablation itself is not mad at all. The pain is gone and my ROM is so much better. I have had no problems but everyone is different but it has benefitted me. I hope this helps a little. My docs were great. Stay safe and healthy in the New Year. KLH
Hi. I do not know if I can be of any help but my doc will not do Radio for the SI joints. I have selective nerve injections (both sides). They may last a year or maybe more. Radio lasts longer on my L4-L6. We usually do the procedures for both close together, a couple of weeks apart. Everyone has their own policy as to what they will perform or not do. I trust my doc that he knows what is best. Hope this helps. Happy New Year and stay safe and healthy. KLH
Thank you so very much for the information. It sure is good to hear a success story. I can't believe Medicare wastes so much money on the nerve blocks having to be redone when it has been proven that it helps. Another friend who has been having epidural steroid injections every three months for about 5 years is going to try RFA. It's a blessing for yours to last up to 3 years. I dearly hope that mine will work at all. Thanks again!
I am replying to myself to say that the radiofrequency ablations on Jan. 5 have reduced pain significantly at T10-T11. What a relief! It has been three days since the procedure and there is so much less pain in my thoracic spine and radiculopathy in ribs. So far so good and I'm hoping for sustained or even better relief.
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2 ReactionsCan I please ask what are selective nerve injections? I’m looking for relief in my SI joints. Have had this for 3+ years. My ortho is now sending me to a spine specialist this week.
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1 ReactionHello, This is Suzfue46. I had radiofrequency ablations (also known as radiofrequency lesions or radiofrequency cauterizing) where an electrical current is past from the tip of the needle to nerves where the irritation is occurring. Mine were targeted at T10-T11. It disables the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. I understand that the nerves eventually (in 6 months to 2 years) grow back and will need a further RFA. I did have a RFA on my S.I. joints which didn't help much. Every one is different so give it a try for a chance at relief if your doctor thinks it may help.