This approach results in decreased edema in the area and decreased synthesis of pain mediators and can be beneficial in pain that is in a localized area of the back with or without radiation to the front of the body or buttocks. Each of these approaches is invasive and presents a risk of surgical complication or infection. However, for intractable pain, these can be procedures that allow restoration of function in some TM patients. An important predictor in whether or not chronic pain can be controlled in a given patient is the undertaking of an aggressive multidisciplinary approach. In many cases, patients have to be the aggressor with their health care teams.
Many physicians are uncomfortable treating patients with pain.
If this is the case with your physician, fire him or her. Or at least, get a referral to see a pain specialist. Ask your physicians about the modalities described here. Each may or may not be appropriate for a given patient. I would even suggest reading the article that I have referenced here and any others that discuss neuropathic or chronic pain.