Has anyone had the facet rhizotomy injection lately and how was the results?

Hi,
The surgeon scheduled me for RFA and I chickened out at the last minute. I have read a lot of negative stuff on internet about RFA. Some positive, but more negative. I just had two facet blocks to set me up for the RFA. The facet blocks have done wonders as I don't even need my cane now. I am post L2/3 surgery and have spinal stenosis at three levels. L2/3 was my worst level but the doc said I may have to have surgery at L4/5 also. I just don't like the sound of RFA and doubt I change my mind. I have been out of work (on work comp) since Jan 09. Work comp has been cool so far but now that I have refused RFA they will probably start playing games with me. I know I didn't answer your question so hope someone has.

Yes, I had a facet RFA at the L5 level about 10 weeks ago and it did reduce the pain in my low back on the right side (didn't work as well on the left). Last Thursday I had a SI joint RFA. That one was a more painful procedure and I'm still waiting to see if it works. I did the right side only and if it works I may do the left side as well.

Welcome to the forum Jpal and Karaokeman,

NT is a great place for information and making new friends. Take care.

Hi! I had my second rhizotomy on my left side this time lst week. I had the right side done 2 weeks prior. The one on my right side lasted 12 days and it was WOnDERFUL! But the pain came back 2 days before my rhizotomy on my left side was done. I think that the pain relief was actually from the anti inflamatory or something in the injection not actually the injection.

If you are asking about the actual pain from the injection, it's not THAT bad. I have a very high pain tolerance so I may not be the best person to respond.

did u ever end up recieving the rhizotomy? i just got mine today and the number one thing you must remember is reading "horror stories" on the internet doesnt help. i read stuff and was so scared and the needles werent nearly as bad as people said they were. all i know if you recieved the joint block injections and they worked, i wouldnt back out on this. i am in alot of pain and discomfort right now, but it takes 4 to 6 weeks to fully work and give you the best benifits. plus you have to see a very skilled dr. my dr is truly wonderful. i didnt think twice about having the procedure done because i knew i had no other choices right now. im 30, was diagnosed with RA and lupus a year and a half ago and needed the relief to take care of my child. if you didnt recieve this yet, you should reconsider it.