Discovering Alternatives to Back Surgery
For Marie and her husband, constant back and hip pain had become a debilitating reality. The pain hindered their daily activities, making even the simplest tasks unbearable. Traditional medical advice often pointed toward surgery, but the couple was determined to find an alternative pain management solution. Their search led them to EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region and Dr. Robert Baranello, an expert in interventional pain management.”Oftentimes, back surgery isn’t the answer for patients who present with back pain alone,” Dr. Baranello explained. “It is first approached with a conservative, multimodal pain management strategy aimed at targeting pain from multiple angles to minimize side effects and maximize relief. These conservative non-surgical measures may include minimally invasive interventional pain management procedures.”
The Path to Relief
Marie recalls the frustration of long waits and limited options. They waited six months to see someone at the neighboring academic institutions. However, with EmergeOrtho, they experienced a different level of care. They even got an MRI within 24 hours and saw Dr. Baranello the next day.
Dr. Baranello proposed a treatment plan that focused on nonsurgical back pain treatment. He recommended a radiofrequency ablation procedure designed to alleviate pain by targeting specific nerves. Marie was initially apprehensive but trusted Dr. Baranello’s expertise and the promise of alternative back pain treatments.
Understanding Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation for back pain involves using heat generated by radio waves to target specific nerves, effectively interrupting pain signals. Dr. Baranello explained the process thoroughly, helping Marie feel at ease. The procedure included two preliminary test sessions followed by the primary session, where the targeted nerves were ablated.
“It was no worse than getting a cortisone shot,” noted Marie.
A Pain-Free Life
Within 24 hours of the radiofrequency ablation procedure for back pain, Marie experienced a significant reduction in pain.
“For the last 10 weeks, I’ve been able to sit at a computer or sewing machine for hours, walk up and down stairs, and ride in a car or airplane for more than 20 minutes without intense pain,” she said. “Dr. Baranello helped me return to my former life with the ability to do the things I enjoy through managing pain, not surgery.”
Returning to Passions
One of Marie’s greatest passions is quilting. The severe back and hip pain had made it impossible for her to sit at her sewing machine, forcing her to consider giving up her beloved hobby.
“I’m a quilter,” Maire said. “I sit for hours at the sewing machine and do handwork. The pain in my hips and back was so awful that I couldn’t sit at a sewing machine, and I was ready to just give it all away.”
Marie has returned to quilting with renewed vigor thanks to the nonsurgical back pain treatment.
The Impact of Effective Pain Management
The success of the radiofrequency ablation procedure extended beyond Marie. Her husband, too, underwent the procedure for his back and both knees, experiencing similar relief. The couple now advocates for alternative pain management and back pain treatment without surgery.
Marie emphasizes the importance of having a specialist who listens and understands patient needs.
“We’d been in people’s offices, and they would say, ‘Surgery, surgery, surgery.’ Well, that’s not what we wanted,” Marie noted. “Dr. Baranello is a wonderful person who listens and communicates and helps you arrive at the goals and what procedure you want to pursue.”
Ease of Access and Scheduling
EmergeOrtho’s streamlined process made a significant difference in Marie’s treatment experience.
“From getting an MRI within 24 hours to receiving the results the same night, the efficiency was impressive,” Marie said. “The next day, I saw Dr. Musante, who guided me to Dr. Baranello for the radiofrequency ablation.”
Embracing a More Comfortable Future
Since the procedure, Marie has enjoyed activities she once thought impossible.
“We went on a six-hour flight to Seattle two weeks after the ablation, and I didn’t feel any pain. It’s been a transformative experience,” she said.
Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better.
Marie’s story is a testament to the power of alternative pain management and the effectiveness of the radiofrequency ablation procedure for back pain. Her journey from debilitating pain to reclaiming her passions and everyday activities highlights the importance of exploring alternative back pain treatments.
For those suffering from chronic pain and seeking nonsurgical solutions, Marie’s success story offers hope and inspiration. If you are experiencing back pain, you can learn more about radiofrequency ablation for back pain and other alternative pain management options at EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region. Request an appointment to explore how EmergeOrtho can help you find relief through nonsurgical back pain treatments.
