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Lumbar Facet Joint Radiofrequency AblationWhat are lumbar facet joints?335216596520Facet joints are paired joints that interlink adjacent vertebral bone throughout the spine. These joints, in addition to intervertebral discs, allow for and guide movement of the spine. These joints, like any joints in the body, can experience “wear and tear”, develop degenerative changes known as arthritis, and become a source of pain. -114299171450What does lumbar facet joint pain feel like?Patients with lumbar facet joint pain typically experience pain in the low back area. These joints can commonly “refer” pain and the pain can be described radiating down into the buttock and back of the thigh. With this pain, muscles in the surrounding area can spasm in attempt to stabilize the joint segment.This form of arthritis of the back can also limit movement of the spine. Typically patients have difficulty with standing straight up and bending backwards.How is lumbar facet joint pain diagnosed?A physician or healthcare provider with experience in treating back pain can easily diagnose pain from facet arthritis (arthropathy). Imaging, including MRI and x-rays, can confirm the diagnosis of facet joint arthritis. How is this condition treated?282892585725Commonly, providers may tell patients that they have arthritis in the back and that there is no treatment. Fortunately this does not have to be the case. If typical conservative management doesn’t help including rest, physical therapy, medications, etc., then there are interventional treatment options available.Like simple knee injections with corticosteroids, the facet joints can also be injected directly under x-ray guidance with corticosteroids to relieve the pain. Often the joints are difficult to access or the medications doesn’t last as long as we would like. Another treatment option includes a procedure called a radiofrequency ablation. There are small nerve fibers that relay the joint pain signal up to the brain. These nerve fibers can be cauterized and the pain signal interrupted. Prior to this procedure, two diagnostic tests must be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Patients are typically very satisfied with the results from this procedure.Before the procedure:Your physician or healthcare provider will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:Allergic reactionWorsening painInfectionNerve injuryDay of the procedure:We recommend you eat and take medications as usual unless otherwise specified by your treating physician. Please let your provider know if you have a fever or any recent infections. Having a driver is encouraged if any form of sedation will be used for the procedure, this will be discussed prior to the procedure.What happens during the procedure?The procedure takes about 30-60 minutes, and involves you lying on your stomach.3343580154847Once the location is identified using x-ray guidance, you will receive a numbing shot of an anesthetic.The needle is then advanced to the proper location of the small nerve branch (medial branch).During the procedure you will be asked if you feel any sensation or muscle twitching, which ensures adequate placement of the electrode.Once the needle and electrode are in the correct location, the nerve is heated with radio waves until the nerve is cauterized and unable to relay the pain signal to the brain.What happens after the procedure?A bandage will be placed over the site.You will wait a short period in our recovery room, typically 5-15 minutes.Prior to discharge we will provide post injection care instructions.Discharge instructions:Do not bathe for 24 hours, you may shower as usual.Do not do any strenuous activities if possible the rest of the day.Call with any questions or concerns.Tell all your friends the good news. :) ................
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