Radiofrequency or Pulsed Radiofrequency –which is which?
Radiofrequency denervation is the active heating of tissue at the non-insulated tips of needles, after the target nerve has been found using high frequency currents to stimulate them. Heating of purely sensory nerves to greater than 44 degrees C leads to permanent damage in the lesion area.
Pulsed radiofrequency denervation is for nerves with both sensory and motor components e.g. Occipital nerves can be heated to 42 degrees C using pulsed radiofrequency. This prevents permanent damage and muscle paralysis. This is also used for sensory nerves where there is nerve entrapment or a neuroma is present.
Meralgia Parasthetica – Entrapment of the lateral cutaneous nerve of thigh
Pulsed radiofrequency denervation is perfect as part of the treatment for the pain and/or, numbness emanating from entrapment of this nerve. The diagram above shows where the nerve is found and which area of skin it supplies.
How I Can Help
There is no need to suffer with debilitating low back pain; help is at hand! If you are suffering with low back pain and it will not go away despite the passage of time and using simple pain relieving medications, physiotherapy etc., then I can see you for a comprehensive evaluation of your problem.
Sometimes I alone cannot help you and I work closely with colleagues – surgeons, physiotherapists and psychologists which is important in such care – the multidisciplinary team.
Email health@gmail.com or call us on 0845 225 2215 for an appointment. Leave a message if you get through to a voicemail and you will be called back.
