Question about nerve burning - new on this board...

  • Thread starter Thread starter tiggertoo2174
  • Start date Start date
T

tiggertoo2174

Guest
Hi. I've been posting on the pain management board for a couple of months, but haven't here till today. I have DDD in the lurabar spine and the cervical spine with bulging disks in both and good amount of bone spurring and some osteoarthritis in the cervical spine. I also have pain in the right shoulder after rotator cuff surgery to remove bone spurring there two years ago, and pain in the ribs on the right side. I'm currently in PT for the shoulder (not much strength) and they think that can be improved with work on the muscles, as well as giving me stretches etc to help reduce the neck pain, the PT does not think he can do anything for the rib pain. The major unresolved issue is the rib pain that started in February of 2008. I had a series of 3 4-level intercostal nerve blocks in March and April, but the pain relief didn't last more than 2-4 weeks after the last one. One of the options that was brought up by my new pain mgt Dr. is burning the intercostal nerves. Has anyone had this done? How bad is the pain after the procedure, and how long is the recovery time?

Tigg.
 
Ive never heard of this, but wish the best to you. I guess if you burn the nerves they wont hurt, but you also lose feeling dont you? Be sure to know the benefits vs. risks and i hope it works out for you.

Debbie
 
Dear Tigg, Hi! I have had the lurabar pain nerves burned (L3, L4 and L5 on both sides). I have had the procedure repeated several times, and it has given me good pain relief. For the procedure, they give you nurabing shots and some painkillers (Versed/Fentanyl, etc.). It is somewhat uncomfortable, but not too bad if they give you enough meRAB. Make sure to confirm with your doctor that he will give you a good amount of meRAB:), otherwise the burning part hurts. As far as recovery, you will need to rest at least 3 days or so. Then, the next 2-3 weeks you can do your normal schedule, but I have to take breaks and rest/ice or I will flare it up. After 2-3 weeks it is about recovered. For me the procedure lasts 8 months, so it is worth it. Make sure your doctor is very experienced with these procedures, and uses fluoroscopy (active x-ray). Good luck and take care, Kera4
 
Back
Top