Howdy Doo -

Can anyone tell me if they got relief from back spasms after getting RFA?

I told my Dr that my back spasm pain is actually worse than my lumbar degenerative pain. He said that the RFA can also get rid of the spasms. Does this sound right??

I've researched online and am seeing that in some cases this may be true, but in other cases, the RFA procedure actually causes back spasms!

ANY feedback will be much appreciated.
Please share your experience with this procedure.
.....meanwhile I'll keep reading thru some of the older posts.

thanks,
Rae

Rrae, it is common to have an increase in pain and spasms for up to two weeks. You didn't say when you had it done. The medial branch nerve(s) have to die back and it can take awhile. I have had at least 4 done through the years and always have an increase in pain and spasms for awhile. But once it takes, it's great!! I hope you get some relief soon as I think RFA's work very, very well. Hang in there!

Thank you Kathi! How encouraging your post is!
I haven't had this procedure done yet. I'm scheduled to get the medial branch blocks done to see if I am a candidate for the RFA.

I have other concerns as well, such as 'if' this might make my RSD spread. But, since I've been battling horrid back spasms for so long, I'm just real leary of trying Anything that might 'possibly' make things worse.

I'm glad you let me know what to expect if/when I have this procedure done. Thank you so much.

BTW, about how long did your pain relief last after getting this done?

Rae

I am scheduled for RFA on Feb 24 then L5-S1 anterior and posterior lumbar fusion on March 12th. I want to know if anyone has had increased in pain after RFA and if it is possible they will want me off from Feb 24- surgery date? I am scared to death about the fusion. I am a medical professional and I know about all the horror stories. I am thinking positive.
I have vise-like pain or squeezing to my bra line and waist line and find it extremely difficult to sleep in any position, loading dishwasher, extending, flexing, and at times depending what I am doing just brushing my teeth or putting something in my hair or reaching causes sharp pain to my lower back and I catch myself from dropping to my knees. Also, just stooping and trying to stand is difficult. I don't have numbness or tingling to my legs so I guess I am lucky.
I am asking for any advice, etc you can give me. Thanks