It is not uncommon for patients to experience some level of discomfort, burning pain, or hypersensitivity in the area of the procedure. This sensation is often described as similar to a sunburn, and usually lasts no more than 1-2 weeks after the procedure. To ensure a successful recovery, it is recommended to rest for several days before returning to normal activities. However, patients can still participate in regular activities, but should be mindful of their pain levels during the first few days.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe a guided physiotherapy regimen to help patients safely increase their strength and tolerance to activity. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also known as rhizotomy, is a non-surgical pain control technique that uses radiofrequency waves to interrupt pain signals sent to the brain. It is often used when other treatments such as pain medicine and physical therapy have not been successful in relieving chronic pain. Patients may experience some pain from the procedure for up to 14 days, but this is usually due to residual effects of nerve ablation or muscle spasm. Most patients are able to return to work within 24-72 hours after the procedure, and experience relief within 10 days. Radiofrequency ablation works by using radio waves to create heat that kills tissue.
When used on nerve tissue, it can provide relief from pain that has not responded to other treatments. It has been used successfully to treat heart rhythm problems and more recently, tumors and pain. The risks associated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are still being evaluated as it is a relatively new treatment option. If you and your doctor decide that RFA is appropriate for treating a thyroid nodule, you will need one or more fine-needle aspiration biopsy procedures to confirm that the nodule is benign.
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