Radio Frequency for Heel Pain


Symptoms

The bottom of your foot may hurt when you stand, especially first thing in the morning. Pain usually occurs on the inside the foot, near the spot where your heel and arch meet. Pain may lessen after a few steps, but it comes back after or with prolonged movement.


What is Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency is a form of energy that has been utilized by physicians to eliminate pain for over twenty-five years. Historically, it was applied to low back pain and neck pain.


How is the Technique Performed?

Instruments approximately the size of needles are place through the skin into your heel in the areas where you are experiencing pain. Usually, this entails three to four separate locations. These electrodes are attached to a radiofrequency generator by thin wires that conduct the radiofrequency. Under anesthesia, the radiofrequency is sent to your foot and concentrated in the areas of your
discomfort. Nerve endings are deadened in these specific locations, thus eliminating your pain.


Is the procedure painful?

No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia and afterwards no pain medication is necessary. You are able to resume normal activities, including work, the day following your procedure. In most instances, complete resolution of your pain is achieved within two weeks following the procedure.


What are the advantages of this technique over other methods of treating heel pain?

Radiofrequency lesioning is not an open surgical procedure, and does not disable you or involve an extensive period of healing or any of the other complications associated with surgery. The following day you can resume normal activities, with little or no inconvenience.


What is the success rate of this procedure?

A 90% success rate treating heel pain with radiofrequency has been demonstrated


Are the results of radiofrequency permanent?

Yes. If you are among 90% of those people who are successfully treated with radiofrequency, the results are permanent.


Is this procedure covered by my health insurance?

In the vast majority of cases, radiofrequency is covered by a patient's health insurance.