Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group Radiofrequency Neurotomy of SI Joints

Has anyone had this procedure done and if so, did it help? It was suggested by dr to me. It's where they go in and fry the SI nerves. Nerves will regrow, but was told 1 year of pain relief is possible. As a vet of SI injections, not concerned about pain from procedure but am researching success rates. Here's a description:

http://www.spine-health.com/topics/conserv/radio/radio01.html

Never had this done. Years ago I was thinking about a treatment in Mexico. After doing some research this is what they did. They claimed it was a cure, but really just kill the nerves so you don't feel it anymore. I research said that it made you feel better, and there was no need to spend two weeks in Mexico. I opted not to get it done.

Steve, this is being used more frequently for SI probs now although I don't recall reading about anyone on this forum trying it. I figure if it lasts a year, that's less medicine being taken. Regardless, I'll be ready for ski season; it's sitting that's the problem but never ever skiing.

Its just me but the only "procedure" i will ever accept for my SI joints is an injection that will accelerate the fusing process. It exists, but its used very rarely. I told my doc about it already. For me, the only way to get rid of the pain for sure and make it so i can walk "normally" again is to get it fused. I can cope with the loss of 3-5 degrees of range of motion. With pain gone in my SIs i would be able to stretch my hips again and would probably regain a lot more mobility then what i can do atm anyways.


Carole

Years ago on the asweb site there was a person that had this done. He lived in southern California. He said that he was able to go golfing again after the procedure. I don't think he has ever posted on this site. If you decide to go for it let us know how it goes. I plan on skiing again this year. I have been running all summer so that I can ski this winter.

Good Luck.

Xzia, I agree...wish there was such an injection to fuse the joints. My dr said the pain will disappear when the SI's fuse but I've been waiting over a decade and still counting...

Eary snowpack is building!

I once asked my Dr. if they could surgically go in and take my nerves out. She said no..lol