Chronic pain in the plantar fascia and greater trochanter are two common conditions that affect a large number of people, especially those who are subjected to intense physical activity, repetitive movements, or have some anatomical predisposition. Both conditions can significantly limit patients’ quality of life, interfering with their ability to walk, run or even perform everyday tasks.
Fortunately, advances in interventional medicine have enabled the development of innovative treatments such as radiofrequency, which offer an effective and minimally invasive option for pain control.
Plantar Fascia and Trochanter: Understanding Pain
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that extends from the heel to the toes, providing support to the arch of the foot and facilitating shock absorption.
When this structure becomes inflamed or injured, it can result in plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by a shooting pain in the heel, especially when walking after periods of rest.
The greater trochanter is a bony prominence on the femur, where several muscles important for hip and thigh mobility are inserted.
Pain in this region is often associated with trochanteric bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa (a small pocket of fluid that reduces friction between bones, muscles and tendons).
This condition is common among people who perform repetitive hip movements, such as runners or cyclists, and can also be caused by direct trauma or muscle imbalances.
Traditional Treatments: Limitations
Conventional treatment for these conditions usually includes rest, physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
However, not all patients respond adequately to these treatments.
Some continue to experience chronic pain that limits their daily activities, which may lead to the need for more aggressive interventions, such as surgery.
It is in this context that radiofrequency emerges as an innovative alternative for pain management, providing long-term relief without the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.
What is Radiofrequency and how does it work?
Radiofrequency is a medical technique that uses electromagnetic energy waves to generate controlled heat on the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals.
By applying this heat precisely to the affected nerves, the transmission of these signals to the brain is interrupted, resulting in a significant reduction in pain.
There are two main types of radiofrequency: thermal (continuous) radiofrequency and pulsed radiofrequency.
- Continuous radiofrequency: Constant heat is applied to the nerves, which can temporarily destroy their ability to transmit pain.
This technique is useful in cases of severe chronic pain. - Pulsed radiofrequency: A less invasive approach is used, applying short, controlled pulses of heat.
This technique does not completely destroy the nerves, but modifies their function, also achieving a reduction in pain, but with less risk of side effects.
Radiofrequency in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis
Chronic plantar fasciitis is one of the leading causes of heel pain, and for those who do not respond to conventional treatments, radiofrequency has proven to be an effective option.
The radiofrequency procedure for plantar fasciitis involves using ultrasound imaging to guide a needle to the area of pain on the sole of the foot.
Once the exact area is located, radiofrequency waves are applied to deactivate the nerves that are transmitting the pain.
Clinical studies have shown that pulsed radiofrequency on the plantar fascia can provide lasting relief for several months or even years, improving patients’ ability to walk and perform physical activities without significant discomfort.
In addition, as a minimally invasive procedure, recovery time is quick, and patients can resume their daily activities in a matter of days.
Radiofrequency for Trochanteric Bursitis
In the case of trochanteric bursitis, pulsed radiofrequency has proven to be an effective solution when traditional treatments fail to relieve pain.
As in plantar fasciitis, a needle guided by ultrasound imaging is used to locate the nerves that are transmitting pain from the inflamed bursa to the hip.
The application of radiofrequency waves to these nerves provides significant and lasting relief.
One of the most attractive aspects of radiofrequency for trochanteric bursitis is that it not only relieves pain, but can also help reduce inflammation in the affected bursa, allowing for better tissue regeneration.
Benefits of Radiofrequency
The use of radiofrequency to treat plantar fascia and greater trochanter pain offers several significant benefits over conventional treatments:
- Minimally invasive: By not requiring open surgery, the risk of complications is much lower, and recovery time is shorter.
- Long-lasting relief: Radiofrequency provides pain relief that can last for several months or years, making it an attractive option for those seeking a long-term solution.
- Accuracy: By using real-time imaging to guide the procedure, physicians can pinpoint the nerves responsible for pain, maximizing treatment effectiveness and minimizing side effects.
- Reduced analgesic use: Many patients are able to reduce their dependence on pain medications, which in turn reduces the risk of side effects associated with prolonged analgesic use.
Is Radiofrequency the Right Solution for You?
If you suffer from chronic plantar fascia or greater trochanter pain and have exhausted conventional treatment options without relief, radiofrequency may be a suitable option for you.
This procedure is especially useful for people who wish to avoid surgery or who are unable to undergo surgical interventions due to other health conditions.
Conclusion
Managing chronic pain in the plantar fascia and greater trochanter through radiofrequency is a safe, effective and minimally invasive technique that offers long-term relief for patients.
If you are looking for a solution to your pain, consult with a pain management specialist to determine if radiofrequency is right for you.
