boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

YES I am biased. But good and chiropractor do not belong in the same sentence

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

Matter of opinion, I suppose. I happen to have an excellent one with several certifications who keeps me tuned up amid my old age aches and pains. I know there are some old-fashioned ones around that I wouldn’t let touch me with a 10-foot pole. My gp and my liver specialist both approve of my visits to him.

kschwegl Loc: Orangeburg, NY

I had radiofrequency ablation to remove a cancerous patch on my esophagus 18 months ago. No issues. You'll be under general anesthesia. I'm sure you'll be fine.

Ken S.

Charles Whittier

My wife had back pain for over 20 years and would be treated by a chiropractor with good results. After time it stopped working because of the condition in her back. She was referred to a leading Orthopedic Dr in our area at Rush Hospital. Results were a fusion needed to stabilize the L5-S1 joint that was moving out of position. That was 2012. In 2013 she started having periods of extreme pain in the Sacroiliac that would put her down without warning causing us to call 911 and a trip to the local hospital resulting in a trip to the pain clinic for an injection of steroids and muscle relaxers. This would last for 3-4 months and it would happen again. Each time in screaming pain. Finally, the pain Dr said he wanted to do an ablation. It would work for longer periods and when needed again she would feel it in time without the stabbing pain and give her time to schedule an appointment without the 911 call. The ablation burnt the nerves in the Sacroiliac (the procedure is painful, not from the burning, but from the insertion of the needles needed and the numbing injection. This lasted for about a day and a half but with ice and Tylenol was fine). After that she was fine for 16 months, no pain. She started getting the sensation a few weeks ago and scheduled an appointment for last Thursday and had another one. First day very painful, Friday just uncomfortable, today walking like nothing happened. Our Pain DR is a very very good Dr and we are grateful to have him available when she needs the procedure.
We have heard stories as above about poor nonworking procedures but if the source of pain is correctly found it can be treated with good results. Good luck with your choice.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

I had Radio Frequency by a doctor in SC, in 2010. (at the time, I lived in coastal NC). I don't specifically remember the after affects, but I do remember her. She was absolutely gorgeous!!
Mark

Ferris Loc: South Carolina

This is indeed a site primarily for photography, but there are not only physicians on this site who have photography as a hobby, but also people who have had similar problems and the same procedure with their back who happen to have photography as a hobby. The gentleman who reached out was asking for help, and people responded rather selflessly. I imagine the replies gave him a basis for how to ask for more information from his doctor. I agree that a second or third opinion is a good idea. He is on his way to making a more informed and hopefully comfortable decision.

Ferris Loc: South Carolina

RFA for the esophagus is not the same as RFA for a spinal problem, when you address efficacy and side effects.

boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

Depends upon why you are going. If you need a touchy, feely kinda thing OK But I would never let a chiropractor treat an actual disease, if it was me

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

[quote=Ferris]

Thank you Ferris for your in depth response and well wishes. I hope you and yours have a safe and prosperous year.

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

Actually Jaymatt, I had not thought of a chiropractor. Something more to consider. Thanks for your input.

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

Thanks John. I guess it's true that life is a terminal illness. Best wishes and keep fighting.

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

Thanks, Longshadow, for responding. In my internet search I've seen lots of references to the procedure's use in cardiac issues with great results. Congrats on your success.

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

Have already been there. The second doctor was rather noncommittal. To paraphrase, he said something like, "can't hurt to try."

Thus, my interest in other's experiences. Thanks for responding,

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

Thanks for responding. That contradicts the opinion of both doctors I consulted.

Alafoto Loc: Montgomery, AL

I was not asking for medical opinions. I was asking for anecdotal experiences from anyone who might have had the procedure, but thanks for your rather condescending advice.

Incidentally, the plumber recommended the 17-85mm.