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What Causes Soreness Of Lower Back After An RFA?

Posted on Thu, 29 Jan 2015

Question: i had a radiofrequency done on my lower back almost two weeks ago. I had the right side done one day and the left the next day. A couple of days afterwards I started getting this terrible soreness in my lower back and on the right side of my thigh. It doesnt seem to be getting better. It will be two weeks on Monday since I had this done. I have severe degenerative disc disease. This pain I am having has me worried. My left side is ok. The pain is on my right. Is this a side effect of radiofrequency or should I be worried. Thank you

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It is not a side effect of radiofreqency.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your query.

I have gone through your query. This pain is not due to side effects of radio frequency. It could be due to prolapsed disc compressing nerve root on right side causing radicular pain on right side.I suggest you to get a fresh MRI done and consult your orthopaedcian for further management.

Hope this will help you.

Warm regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Saurabh Gupta (8 hours later)

it is more like a soreness type of pain. especially when I touch the area where nerve roots were burnt and when I touch the side of my thigh. the soreness doesn't seem to be getting any better. I ache

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (15 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Burning pain and soreness is common for few weeks.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

As you describe the soreness and burning type of pain, seems to be after effect of the procedure.Burning feeling and soreness is expected in some patients for 2-3 weeks.
Applying ice packs will be helpful to reduce the inflammation and discomfort. If it persist even after this then you need to consult your doctor.

Wishing you speedy recovery...

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Saurabh Gupta (10 hours later)

is there any chance this might be an infection? what symptoms would I have if it was? thanks in advance

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (34 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not seems to be infection.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

From your description it not seems to be infection. If it was infection, you would have local swelling, redness, tender (painful to touch), increased local temperature.

Warm regards.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju