Update on Spinal nerve block

[drmind]

In the past, I asked if others had the spinal radio-frequency ablation procedure for back pain. I had bad back pain and was considering doing it and wonder if anyone had issues with it. Well, I'm happy to report that I had the procedure yesterday and have experienced immediate pain relief. . I have to admit thst I was afraid of doing it, but i bit the bullet and had it done. As others on this forum reported, it went well for them. My procedure did, too. It was not as painful as I anticipated and I didn't need iv sedation. The only meds I had was 5 mg of Valium and lidocaine. Best thing I ever did. I can now walk a bit and stand awhile without pain. Phew. Sharing this information in the event others may be considering it.

[jodaer]

I've not heard of that. So thanks for the info and great news on being able to stand and walk some

[drmind in reply to jodaer]

I have several back problems, but I believe that the pain had come mainly because of spinal stenosis. Anyway, my situation is so much better. Walking all over the house without a walker and did go for a 1/4 ,mile walk today with a walker and didn't experience pain.

[jodaer in reply to drmind]

So glad you have found some relief. Pain is the worst thing of all.

[Oiroiroir]

Hi. This is great to read, thank you. I am going for a nerve block injection today and if it works I’m scheduled for the ablation in 2 weeks. Did you have the block first? I hope this lasts for you.

[drmind in reply to Oiroiroir]

Yes, I had two trials before the ablation. The first trial did not offer any pain relief but the second one did. The pain relief from the second trial lasted for about 3 to 4 weeks. I had the nerve ablation a weeks ago. To tell the truth, I was very afraid to have it after reading and hearing it was a painful procedure. But, I went and it only hurt for a few seconds when he stuck the injections in. I had six. I had immediate pain relief after the procedure and still do. There is some stiffness and a little achiness, but I may have overdid as I started walking outside and doing things in the house right away. I should have taken it a little easier. BTW I only had oral Valium before hand and injections of lidocaine (?) Right before the procedure. Good luck with yours. And, keep us posted. I think more people have to know about this procedure. I wish I had known about it 5 years ago!

[daughter-Advocate]

Hi! Did you have any pain at the injection sites after the procedure? My dad just had the RFA procedure for this right side of lower back 3 days ago and felt immediate relief right after the procedure but is now feeling some pain and burning sensation. Did you experience any? If so, how did you address the post-op pain?

Also, how are you doing now as of the end of December? Are you still walking fine without pain?

[drmind]

I never had pain or burning sensation afterwards. My spinal stenosis caused me to have a lot of pressure pain when I stood up and I always had to sit down after a minute or two before the ablation. Now, I can stand 10+.minutes and walk from room to room in the house without a walker. It's given me some of my life back. Yesterday was my final visit at the Pain Clinic. I'm 90 days past the procedure and still pain free from some standing. I was told thst positive results can continue up until 180 days. They also said thst the pain relief can last around 14 to 16 months or longer. And. If the pain comes back sooner, I can redo the ablation. I never took anything for pain. It would be best for your dad to get with the medical provider and see what they can do. Before the procedure, I believe I was told that pain relief msy not be immediate as it can take several weeks before relief kicks in.

Hope this information helps.

[drmind]

I want to add thst I never had pain at the injection sites, 6 of them. But, I had lidocaine injections right before the ablation and i think thst lasted for awhile.

[lynzer]

hi there, considering having this done on my spine 2 days before a big trip to Europe. Any side effects?

[drmind]

I didn't have any, but I was told to rest and not overdo things. I also had lidocaine during the procedure which may have helped afterwards. I had fairly good pain relief, but I still had spinal stenosis which always limits mobility. Good luck