Sciatica Support Group
Sciatica is a term meaning pain that originates from compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest and largest nerve in the body. If the sciatic nerve is pinched or compressed (perhaps by a bulging disc in the low back) a patient may experience leg pain--the classic symptom of sciatica.
I have not been on here in a long time. But I am going thru something right now..and was hoping someone else had this procedure done. I have suffered from sciatica for MANY years...have gone thru all the cordizone shots, epidurals...etc. Then I have an MRI and it shows I have spinal stenosis..(which I think comes with age..but I won't go there..lol)...About a month ago I had a radio frequency ablation done on my right side...deading the nerves. Not sure it has helped much yet..but they did say it would take up to 6 weeks. One week ago today I have the left side done...same prodecure. It hurt so bad having it done this time...I almost came off the table! I realize it has only been a week since having it done again....but I am in SO much more pain than I was before. I thought gradually every day that past I would feel a little better...BUT NO!!!..
My question is..has ANYONE else had the radio frequency ablation done?...how long did it take you to heal and feel better? And in the long run...was it worth it having it done?..are you in less pain now?
Thanks so much to anyone who will reply,
Take care,
HUGS!
Lori
My question is..has ANYONE else had the radio frequency ablation done?...how long did it take you to heal and feel better? And in the long run...was it worth it having it done?..are you in less pain now?
Thanks so much to anyone who will reply,
Take care,
HUGS!
Lori
You shouldn't have that much pain. I felt better within a few days. The 'aching' was much better.
Also, spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, it's NOT age related.
I hope they told you that the procedure you had done is only temporary. The 'deadening' of the nerves is only a temporary fix as the nerves grow back at the rate of 1 inch per month. That's an average ~ some grow back faster, some slower. So this isn't going to cure you. Thought I'd better tell you in case the doc didn't which they usually don't.
Best of luck, and I pray you find something that eases your pain! God bless and take care. Hugs, Lee
Thanks for your reply...you are exactly right..it was done with fluoroscopy...and the monitor, where he could see what he was doing. I believe he inserted the needles in 3 different areas...one of which I remember, was the most painful. Felt as if the needle was going to come straight thru the front of me on my left side. This is where the pain is still so severe. I am taking Tylenol #3 and using ice packs, but it doesnt seem to be helping much. Maybe I just need to give it more time to heal...it just concerned me, because after having the right side done...it didnt hurt this bad or last this long!
He did tell me that this may not be a permenant cure...and explained the nerves do regenerate, after so long. I am hoping that it last long enough where I can return to work as I have not been able to since September.
Thanks again for your reply,
I truely do appreciate it.
HUGS
Lori
My heart really goes out to you - I also have severe sciatica and it sure does impact your life. I've never heard of ablation and would like to hear more about it. I'd settle even for temporary relief at this point. I'm sorry to hear you're in so much pain but if as Lee mentioned, that's not normal, you should let your dr know. I really hope and pray you get some relief - please keep us posted on our progress - Jan