Chronic pain can be caused by “pain generating nerves” that have been damaged through disease or injury. These nerves can be neutralized or destroyed through Radiofrequency Neurolysis, which is used on a variety of different nerve locations to cause neural ablation or destruction of nerves that have been identified as pain generating nerves.
Typically, a diagnostic facet or diagnostic nerve injection (medial branch block) is performed to determine whether or not facets are generating pain. These injections are completed under fluoroscopic guidance and consist of the insertion of a needle into specific nerves. By evaluating the pain improvement where the needle was injected, the physician can determine the specific areas causing pain.
Once the source of pain is determined, patients may consider Radiofrequency Neurolysis, a very safe procedure that is similar to the nerve injection, but instead uses radiofrequency waves to produce movement in certain nerve cells, causing the cells to heat up and self destroy.
Most patients feel mild discomfort only during the placement of the needle. After that, local anesthetic is used to prevent pain. Both procedures are extremely safe and effective for the relief of pain in the neck, back, arms or legs.
If you, a friend, or family member is suffering from chronic pain, call us today at 732-431-2155 to schedule an appointment with a member of the Advanced Wellness team.
