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CaliGirl · 01-27-2009, 05:27 PM

Ok, had a medial branch (facet joint) nerve block today- bilateral in the sacral-lumbar area. For the first several hours I had decent relief on the right side in areas where I am usually sore and none on the lelt side. It almost feels like it didn't "take" on that side. Strangly enough, I also hurt afterward in areas that were not sore before. Now, some 12 hours later I hurt pretty badly on my right side now that the block has worn off. My dilema is what to do next. I am thinking of having them do the radio-frequency treatment on the right side only given the results of this block. They have me scheduled for having both the right and left sides done in 6 weeks but they said we would modify if needed. Any advice.

kera4 · 01-28-2009, 12:50 PM

Hi! I'm glad it helped on the right side! For me, all my pain is on the left side. I had a similar response to you-the block gave me pain relief right away and then wore off. My doctor went ahead and did the radiofrequency burning on both sides. He seemed to think doing both sides would help me more. Every situation is different-do you have any other issues going on on the left side, like disc/nerve issues? Anyway, I wish you luck with the RFA. It really helps with the pain, but does take a bit longer to recover from. For about 2 weeks after the RFA I can do things, but must take frequent breaks and ice/painkillers. Take care, Ker4

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