Fibromyalgia is a condition that is often difficult to diagnose and manage. People living with fibromyalgia often experience chronic, widespread pain. The condition may gradually develop with no identifiable trigger, or it may develop after infection, surgery, or physical injury. If you’re trying to cope with the pain of fibromyalgia and have tried other treatments without success, there is hope.
Radiofrequency ablation, which is offered by Orthocenter, is a minimally invasive procedure that can treat the chronic pain caused by fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder that can cause fatigue as well as pain and tenderness in areas all over the body. Fibromyalgia is commonly misdiagnosed, and when sufferers do get a proper diagnosis, it can take time to find a treatment that works. The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown. Treatment normally focuses on reducing or eliminating the pain.
Men and women with fibromyalgia primarily experience a consistent dull aching pain that can affect many areas of their body. Symptoms can also include:
Symptoms may be the result of the body overreacting to pain signals. The nerves throughout the body may become more sensitive to stimulation, thus amplifying the pain. Furthermore, stress can also cause flare-ups.
Pain relievers are commonly used to treat fibromyalgia. A combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and physical therapy can help as well. When typical treatments fail, radiofrequency ablation may be able to provide relief.
Controlling pain is key to managing fibromyalgia. Radiofrequency ablation uses radio waves to heat up nerves that are sending pain signals to your brain. Doing this can interrupt the nerve signals and thus provide immediate pain relief. This procedure blocks or reduces pain signals for an average of 6-9 months. In some cases, the results may last 18-24 months or longer.
Radiofrequency ablation is offered to men and women with chronic pain, typically of the neck and back. If you suffer from fibromyalgia-related pain, radiofrequency ablation may help get your symptoms under control.
First, your Orthocenter provider gives you a thorough exam to determine where the pain signals are coming from. Once the correct nerve is located, electric stimulation is transmitted to the nerve. You may feel some throbbing, and the area may twitch. It’s important to communicate what you feel to your provider. As a result of your treatment, the nerve will be temporarily hindered from sending pain signals.
After your procedure, you will have a few restrictions, such as avoiding driving and operating heavy machinery within the first 24 hours. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours following treatment.
Your provider will give you a complete list of temporary restrictions to ensure the best recovery possible.
To learn more about how we can use radiofrequency ablation to manage your fibromyalgia pain, book an appointment online or over the phone with Orthocenter today.
