Radiofrequency Ablation of Medial Branches

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Understanding Back and Neck Pain

Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the spine becomes compressed or inflamed, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. It can affect both the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions, often causing distress but is typically treatable. The compression of the nerve can result from various factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes in the spine. Symptoms can radiate down the arms or legs, depending on the location of the affected nerve. While radiculopathy can cause significant discomfort, treatment options such as physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery, can help alleviate symptoms and improve mobility. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing the condition effectively.

Lumbar Radiculopathy

This condition results from nerve compression in the lower back, often due to herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. Symptoms include sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating down the legs, commonly referred to as sciatica. Activities like bending, lifting, or twisting can aggravate the pain.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy involves nerve compression in the neck, often caused by herniated discs or bone spurs. Symptoms include neck pain, tingling or numbness radiating into the arms, hands, or fingers, and weakness in the arms or hands, which may affect motor skills or grip strength.

Symptoms

Pain: Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain radiating into the limbs.
Numbness: Pins and needles sensation or loss of sensation along the nerve path.
Weakness: Decreased strength in affected muscles, leading to difficulty with movements.
Reduced Reflexes: Diminished or absent reflexes in the affected limb.

Diagnosis
A physical examination helps identify muscle strength, reflexes, and sensory deficits. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans pinpoint the source and location of compression, and electromyography (EMG) may further assess nerve and muscle function.

Why Choose Harmony Pain Management?

Personalized Care

Custom treatment plans tailored to your needs

Advanced Treatments

Safe, effective interventional pain solutions

Comprehensive Approach

Multi-modal therapies to restore function

Compassionate Expertise

Care led by Dr. Manjunath Shetty with empathy and professionalism

Full Support

Guidance through every step of your recovery and documentation

Support for Personal Injury Cases

We specialize in treating patients injured in auto accidents, workplace incidents, or other personal injury cases. Our team works closely with attorneys, insurance adjusters, and medical providers to ensure your treatment and documentation are handled with precision throughout your recovery process.

Overview
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that provides long-term relief for chronic back or neck pain caused by facet joint dysfunction. It uses controlled heat to disrupt medial branch nerves, stopping them from sending pain signals. Pain relief typically lasts six months to over a year, making it more durable than injections.

Procedure
The skin is sterilized and numbed. Using X-ray or ultrasound guidance, a specialized needle is placed near the medial branch nerves. A small current confirms placement, then radiofrequency energy heats and disables the nerves. Patients are monitored briefly and usually return home the same day.

Benefits

Long-lasting pain relief (6+ months)
Minimally invasive alternative to surgery
Improved mobility and daily function
Targets specific pain nerves with precision
Typically follows a successful medial branch block for accuracy

Risks
Temporary soreness, infection, bleeding, rare nerve injury, or allergic reactions may occur, but serious complications are uncommon.

Effectiveness
Most patients notice significant relief within days to weeks, with improved mobility and reduced need for medication or surgery. The procedure can be repeated if pain returns.

Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective option for patients with chronic facet joint pain, offering targeted, long-lasting relief and better quality of life when conservative treatments haven’t worked.