What Is Radiofrequency Neurotomy?

Colburn Law

Posted in Personal Injury,Spinal Cord Injury on November 12, 2022

Many accident victims suffer from chronic back pain. Defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks, chronic and long-term back pain can be uncomfortable at best and completely debilitating at worst. There are many treatment options available to help relieve this condition, including radiofrequency neurotomy.

Radiofrequency neurotomy is a non-invasive procedure that works by targeting the nerve responsible for causing chronic back pain. This treatment can help alleviate this pain and improve your quality of life without needing to undergo intensive surgical treatment. After an accident, you can recover compensation to pay for this procedure by pursuing an insurance claim or lawsuit.

How Does Radiofrequency Neurotomy Work?

Chronic back pain is caused by nerves in the spine, usually in the vertebrae, ligaments, and facet and sacroiliac joints. Traumatic injuries, such as those sustained in a car crash or a slip-and-fall accident, can damage these nerves. This chronic pain can greatly disrupt your quality of life and impact your ability to go to work, perform daily tasks, or even relax.

When you undergo a radiofrequency neurotomy procedure, a small needle will be inserted next to these nerves. Then, a small electrical current will pass through the needle, directing heat at the nerve that is causing the pain. The nerve is then destroyed, helping relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Radiofrequency Neurotomy

Radiofrequency neurotomy is a non-surgical and non-invasive procedure. It is usually performed at an outpatient clinic, and you can usually go home the same day. 

• Before the procedure, your doctor will assess your medical history and take steps to identify the source of the pain. Your doctor will also perform tests to determine whether radiofrequency neurotomy is an appropriate course of treatment for your condition.
• During radiofrequency neurotomy, you will be placed on a special table and your doctor will numb the injection site with a local anesthetic. This anesthetic helps numb the area where the needle will be placed. You may feel some discomfort during the procedure and for up to a week afterward.
• Your doctor will recommend that you avoid strenuous activities for a few days following the procedure. He or she may prescribe medication to help relieve the light soreness and pain that you may feel around the injection site. 

Recover Compensation for Radiofrequency Neurotomy Treatment

Radiofrequency neurotomy can provide many benefits to victims living with chronic back pain. It is a non-surgical procedure with minimal side effects and a low risk of complications. However, paying for this treatment can be challenging, especially after a recent accident.

If someone else’s actions caused your chronic back pain, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Depending on the circumstances, you could file a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim against the at-fault party. Through your claim, you could recover a settlement to help pay for your medical treatment, including radiofrequency neurotomy procedures. 

You can also secure a settlement for your property damage, lost wages, and other losses suffered in the accident. If you believe that you are eligible for a claim, it is important to work with a Washington personal injury lawyer who can defend your best interests.  As soon as possible following your accident, contact an attorney to discuss your next steps.