When chronic low back pain does not improve with physiotherapy, medications or changes in habits, it is normal to look for options that help regain mobility and reduce day-to-day limitations. In many cases, the origin is in the joints of the spine and in the nerves that transmit the pain signal.
Lumbar rhizolysis for chronic painin Panama by radiofrequency is a minimally invasive procedure that seeks to interrupt the transmission of pain in specific nerves. At the COPAC Orthopedic Center in Panama, we evaluate your case with a comprehensive approach and coordinate the most appropriate plan. If you want to know if you are a candidate, schedule an assessment with our team.
Rhizolysis is mainly aimed at people with chronic pain in the lower back that is related to specific structures of the spine. It is not a procedure “for all types of pain”, so patient selection is a key part of the result.
Rhizolysis, also called radiofrequency ablation, is a procedure that uses controlled energy to act on small sensory nerves that transmit pain from certain joints in the spine. The goal is to decrease the pain signal that reaches the brain, while maintaining the stability of the back.
In practical terms, it seeks to improve the ability to move and reduce the need for painkillers, especially in people with chronic low back pain of facet origin. Results vary depending on the cause of the pain, the time of evolution and the subsequent comprehensive approach.
There are variants depending on the region treated. Lumbar rhizolysis focuses on the lower back, while cervical rhizolysis is indicated in selected cases of chronic neck pain. Although the principle is similar, the planning and anatomical goal change depending on the segment of the spine.
The evaluation includes history of pain, history, physical examination, and review of previous studies. If necessary, we indicate complementary images to understand the lumbar context and choose the most appropriate treatment.
In many cases, a diagnostic block is recommended to more accurately identify which structure is causing the pain. If the blockage clearly improves symptoms, it increases the likelihood that rhizolysis will have a good effect by interrupting the transmission of pain in those nerves.
Do you have recent studies? You can bring MRI, CT scan, or X-rays. If you don’t have them, we guide you on which ones are really necessary before deciding on a procedure.
Rhizolysis is an outpatient procedure , planned and with safety measures. It is performed with image guidance to locate the precise site and reduce risks.
Most patients describe controllable discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia and, depending on the case, additional measures for greater comfort may be used. In general, it does not require hospitalization; The usual thing is to leave on the same day with clear indications for home.
After rhizolysis, some people feel progressive relief for days or weeks. There may also be transient local discomfort in the treated area. Follow-up is important to adjust activity, exercises, and rehabilitation plan.
The duration of the effect varies. In many cases, the benefit is maintained for months, but it depends on the cause of the pain, the degree of lumbar wear and tear and compliance with the strengthening and spine care plan. If the pain returns, the reason and available options are reevaluated.
Like any procedure, rhizolysis has risks. Although they are usually rare, it is important to speak them clearly. They may include temporary local pain, transient irritation, bleeding, or infection. In patients with specific conditions or with certain medications, additional preparation is required.
It is also important to understand that rhizolysis seeks to control a pain pathway, but does not “rejuvenate” the spine or replace strengthening, weight management, rehabilitation, or management of habits that affect the lower back.
At COPAC Orthopedic Center we provide comprehensive orthopedic and traumatology care, with a highly qualified medical team and access to a wide range of subspecialties for spine cases and musculoskeletal pain.
The cost of lumbar radiofrequency rhizolysis can vary depending on the level to be treated, the complexity of the case, the need for previous studies, the type of supplies and the follow-up plan. Therefore, the most useful thing to do is to quote based on a medical assessment and a defined plan.
If you want an estimate according to your situation, write to us by WhatsApp or call us and we will guide you on the steps for the evaluation and the scheduling process in Panama.
It is not proposed as a single “cure”. It is an option to reduce pain when the origin is compatible with the procedure and is accompanied by rehabilitation and comprehensive management. The goal is to improve function and quality of life.
If you have had chronic low back pain for some time and want to know if lumbar rhizolysis is right for you, at the COPAC Orthopedic Center we can help you sort through the diagnosis and choose the best treatment option, with clear explanations and a realistic plan.
Contact us to schedule your appointment and receive guidance on preparation, helpful documents, and next steps.
