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When pain originates from a specific nerve or nerve root, the application of a local anesthetic (�caine� drug) can block the pain. This simple test can often predict whether or not long term blockade of that nerve might produce long term pain relief. This applies to conditions where pain originates from a specific structure supplied by a specific nerve.
Long term nerve block can be done with application of heat, cold, or chemicals. Cryotherapy (cold) is usually very short lived and requires relatively large needle diameters. Chemicals such as phenol or glycerol are often effective but can spread beyond the target nerve to hurt nearby structures. Application of heat energy using radio waves can be an effective way to safely block nerves for long periods of time.
This use of radiofrequency (RF) energy is very similar to cooking with microwaves. The object of RF therapy is not to �cook� the nerve, but to change nerve transmission without �killing� the nerve. This is called �lesioning� the nerve. Permanently injuring the nerve can cause neuropathic (�nerve generated�) pain that can be worse than the original pain.
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