Has anyone had a radiofrequency neurotomy on lower back? If so did it help or hurt?

I had never heard of this, but I did look into it on the web, it seems fairly new and therefore not a lot of long term research is available. I hope someone on the site has some first hand knowledge of this, but from the few posts I have seen regarding back surgery, a lot people don't report finding the relief they were expecting. Do a ton of research before you decide this is the best option for you. I am curious if you have ever tried massage and accupuncture to see if that in addition to chiropractic manipulation would help. I have such respect for qualified chiropractors, I used one last year to help alleviate some rib pain, it was torture to stand up for long periods of time, after several sessions the pain disappeared, it was totally amazing. I just think you should exhaust all other means before deciding surgery is the way to go.

Blessings-
CK

Personally, I know of one person whom has had the radiofrequency nerve burning. Unfortunately, this person continues to work construction, lifting heavy objects and so his symptoms have slowly returned. I, myself have had three back surgeries and had my first set of facet injections last year. This calmed my pain down considerably. I just started my facet injections yesterday again. The first set lasted almost a year. The nerve burning was discussed but as long as I get relief from the injections I will postpone the nerve burning. When there is nerve damage you probably will never be completely pain free. But, pain management is individual and has to be managed every day. Sleeping, sitting and walking are my main objective. Comfort.

I had the Radiofrequency nerve lesioning (burning) about 8 weeks ago. The proceedure does require the 3 visits, the last being the lesioning. I had to be awake to identify the pain location but then was put out for the shots. I have two bones sliding against the spine and pinching the nerves. Now they are doing epidual steroid injections in my sacrioliac (for arthritis). They say I am too anxious to go throguh another 3 visits for more RFL. I feel confused about this.

I still have some pain and no painkillers work on me, but I think it would be worse without these shots. I seem to have no other choice except surgery, but don't want that and niether does my Pain management doctor. Chiropractic or massage or acupuncture are not an option in this case.

I hope you bravely proceed and get the help you need. What elese can we do?

I have not hadi it on my low backbut I have had it done on my neck. It was the best pain relief I have had form any procedure. It lasted a little over a year. I took very little meds during that time. If you have had a nerv block and worked well. I would do it. My experience was good the procedure was less painful than any I have had. and it worked it no time.

PS if you have addition questions I will be happy to answer them. I have had tried all the procesure that are out there. I did not give a lot of detail because I feel you have been thru your share of pain management. Just ask and I will try to calm you fears but will be upfront and honest about all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I had this Radiofrequency Lesioning Proceedure (the nerve block) and it helped some. I am now having cortisone shots from the same Pain Management Place for arthritis. I think my back would be worse if I had not had the nerve block. It is tedious and anxiety producing, but what else can we do but follow their suggestions if we don't want surgery.