Rhizotomy: Effective Pain Relief for Chronic Back and Neck Pain in New Jersey
A rhizotomy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate chronic back and neck pain by targeting the nerve responsible for pain transmission. By carefully deactivating specific nerve fibers, a rhizotomy provides long-lasting relief for patients suffering from facet joint pain, arthritis, or nerve-related spinal conditions. At the New Jersey Spine Institute, board-certified spine surgeons Dr. James Dwyer and Dr. Paul Vessa perform rhizotomies with precision, focusing on effective, targeted pain relief that improves your quality of life.
Symptoms Treated by Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy is effective for managing symptoms related to nerve or joint pain, including:
- Chronic pain in the back or neck: Persistent discomfort from facet joint arthritis or nerve irritation.
- Radiating pain: Pain that spreads from the spine to the shoulders, arms, or legs.
- Limited mobility: Difficulty performing daily activities due to pain.
- Pain that worsens with movement: Such as bending, twisting, or extending the spine.
If you experience any of these symptoms, a rhizotomy may be an effective option for finding relief.
Conditions Treated by Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy is commonly used to treat pain associated with:
- Facet joint arthritis: Degeneration of the facet joints that causes chronic pain.
- Spinal osteoarthritis: Arthritis that affects the vertebrae and leads to nerve irritation.
Sacroiliac joint pain: Inflammation or irritation in the joints connecting the spine to the pelvis.
How Rhizotomy is Performed
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Vessa use advanced imaging techniques to precisely perform rhizotomies, ensuring safe and effective results. The process includes:
- Local Anesthetic: To minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Using radiofrequency energy, specific nerve fibers are heated to deactivate their pain signals, effectively “interrupting” the nerve’s ability to transmit pain.
- Fluoroscopic Guidance: Real-time X-ray ensures accuracy, targeting only the problematic nerves.
Recovery After Rhizotomy
Most patients experience minimal downtime and can resume light activities within a day. The full effects of pain relief generally become apparent within a few days to a week, with relief lasting from several months to over a year, depending on the individual.
FAQs About Cervical and Lumbar Myelogram
Q: Is rhizotomy painful?
A: Rhizotomy is generally well-tolerated, with only mild discomfort. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and patients usually feel little more than slight pressure during the procedure.
Q: How long does pain relief last after a rhizotomy?
A: Pain relief from a rhizotomy can last anywhere from six months to over a year. Some patients may require additional treatments for continued relief.
Q: Are there any risks with rhizotomy?
A: Rhizotomy is a safe procedure, but as with any treatment, there are minor risks like temporary numbness or mild soreness. Complications are rare when performed by experienced spine specialists.
Q: What makes rhizotomy different from other pain treatments?
A: Unlike temporary pain relief from medications, rhizotomy provides longer-lasting relief by deactivating the pain-transmitting nerves. It offers a non-surgical option for chronic pain management.
Q: Is rhizotomy effective for everyone?
A: Rhizotomy is highly effective for patients with nerve-related spinal pain, particularly facet joint pain. A consultation with Dr. Dwyer or Dr. Vessa can help determine if it’s the right option for you.