Somnia Interventional Pain Services, 578 Verster Street, Elarduspark, Pretoria (2026)

27/08/2026

𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐩 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐀𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐇𝐢𝐩 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐧

Living with chronic hip pain can significantly affect your mobility, independence and quality of life.

𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐩 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐀𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐑𝐅/𝐏𝐑𝐅) is a minimally invasive interventional pain procedure that can provide longer-lasting pain relief for selected patients with chronic hip pain.

The procedure uses radiofrequency or pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) to target the sensory nerves supplying the anterior hip joint.

Specifically, sensory branches of the obturator and femoral nerves are targeted to reduce the transmission of pain signals from the hip.

Before treatment, motor and sensory stimulation is performed to help optimise nerve targeting and enhance procedural safety.

For appropriately selected patients, hip RF/PRF may offer prolonged pain relief and improved function, potentially reducing the impact of chronic hip pain on everyday life.

If chronic hip pain is affecting your quality of life, speak to your pain specialist to find out whether this minimally invasive treatment may be suitable for you.

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Somnia Interventional Pain Services
📌578 Verster Street, Elarduspark, Pretoria
☎️060 633 8419
📧[email protected]

12/08/2026

A Targeted Approach to Longstanding Cervicogenic Headache

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, we recently treated a patient with a more than 6-year history of severe, debilitating cervicogenic headaches.

Despite extensive treatment from multiple sources, including medication and physiotherapy, lasting relief remained difficult to achieve. Multiple Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) blocks provided only incomplete relief.

An important diagnostic step was an ultrasound-guided C2/C3 facet and Third Occipital Nerve (TON) block, performed in our rooms. The patient experienced significant pain relief, which was reproduced on two further occasions over a two-month period.

Based on this consistent response, the patient elected to proceed with Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the Third Occipital Nerve and C2/C3 medial branches.

The procedure was performed with the patient awake, receiving only alfentanil for pain relief. Sensory stimulation was used to carefully confirm the target location, with the patient experiencing the expected spread of stimulation over the occipital region and the area corresponding to her usual pain.

Once the target was confirmed, pulsed radiofrequency was performed for 2 minutes × 2 cycles.

🎯 Why PRF?
Pulsed radiofrequency is an interventional pain technique designed to modulate pain signalling from targeted nerves without the same tissue-destructive effect associated with conventional continuous radiofrequency.

For carefully selected patients with persistent cervicogenic headache, targeted diagnostic blocks can help identify whether the C2/C3 facet joints and Third Occipital Nerve are contributing to their pain and whether an interventional treatment may be appropriate.

At Somnia, our approach is centred on identifying the source of pain and developing a targeted treatment plan for each individual patient.

If you or someone you know has been struggling with longstanding cervicogenic headaches or chronic neck-related pain, speak to our team to find out whether an interventional pain assessment may be appropriate.

📍 Somnia Interventional Pain Services
578 Verster Street, Elarduspark, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

09/08/2026

🌸 Happy Women’s Day from Somnia 🌸

Today, we celebrate the incredible women who inspire us with their strength, courage, compassion and resilience. 💜

To every woman who gives so much of herself — as a mother, daughter, sister, wife, friend, colleague, caregiver, leader or simply by being YOU — we see you, we appreciate you and we celebrate you.

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, we believe that caring for people means seeing the person behind the pain. Today, we honour the women who continue to show strength even on the difficult days. 🌷

Your kindness matters. Your strength inspires. Your story matters. You are valued. You are enough. 💜

From all of us at Somnia, we wish every woman a beautiful and meaningful Women’s Day.

🌸 Happy Women’s Day! 🌸

05/08/2026

WHO IS SOMNIA INTERVENTIONAL PAIN SERVICES?

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, we believe that living with chronic pain should never define your life.

Led by Dr. Basson, our practice is dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing chronic pain through advanced, evidence-based interventional procedures. We focus on identifying the source of your pain and providing personalised treatment plans that help restore function, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.

We treat a wide range of chronic pain conditions, including:
✔️ Neck and back pain
✔️ Sciatica and nerve pain
✔️ Joint pain (knee, shoulder, hip and more)
✔️ Chronic headaches and migraines
✔️ Post-surgical pain
✔️ Cancer-related pain
✔️ Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
✔️ Phantom limb pain and chronic stump pain
✔️ Many other chronic pain conditions

Using the latest minimally invasive techniques and advanced pain management procedures, our goal is simple: to help you move better, feel better, and get back to living the life you deserve.

At Somnia, every patient is treated with compassion, respect, and a commitment to delivering the highest standard of care. We take the time to understand your pain, explain your treatment options, and work alongside you on your journey towards improved health and wellbeing.

You don't have to live with pain. There are options, and we're here to help.

If you or someone you know is living with chronic pain—including phantom limb pain or chronic stump pain—there may be effective treatment options available.

📍 578 Verster Street, Elarduspark, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

Book your consultation with Dr. Basson today and take the first step towards a life with less pain and more possibilities.

13/07/2026

CryoAblation for Phantom Limb & Stump Pain

Living with chronic stump pain and phantom limb pain can be life-changing, especially when conventional treatments have failed.

Dr Basson treated a 74-year-old female who underwent an amputation 37 years ago due to severe neurofibromatosis. Over the past six years, she developed debilitating stump pain and neuralgia, preventing her from wearing her prosthesis. For the last two years, she experienced constant burning pain, severe muscle spasms, and relentless discomfort despite multiple medications, including pregabalin, duloxetine, amitriptyline (Trepiline), and opioid patches prescribed by various healthcare providers.

Ultrasound assessment revealed multiple neurofibromas around the distal sciatic nerve and semitendinosus muscle. Although further surgery with additional shortening of the stump was recommended, the patient wished to avoid another operation.

A diagnostic ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block provided 100% pain relief, confirming the source of her pain. She was subsequently scheduled for an ultrasound-guided CryoNeurolysis (CryoAblation) of the sciatic nerve, performed comfortably in our procedure rooms.

✨ The result?
The patient experienced immediate pain relief and remains pain-free three days after the procedure. We anticipate long-lasting pain relief, which can often extend up to two years, and the procedure can safely be repeated if required.

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, we are committed to offering innovative, evidence-based treatments that restore comfort, function, and quality of life for patients living with chronic pain.

If you or someone you know is struggling with phantom limb pain or chronic stump pain, there may be effective treatment options available.

📍 578 Verster Street, Elarduspark, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

10/07/2026

Chronic Groin Pain - There May Be Hope.

Persistent groin pain after inguinal hernia repair can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. One possible cause is genitofemoral neuralgia – a painful nerve condition that may develop following surgery.

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, we recently performed an ultrasound-guided cryoablation (cryoneurolysis) procedure to treat a patient suffering from chronic neuropathic groin pain after hernia repair with mesh.

What is Cryoablation?
Cryoablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses extreme cold to interrupt pain signals by targeting the affected nerve. By preserving the nerve's outer structure while treating the damaged pain fibres, it offers:
✔ Targeted pain relief
✔ Reduced risk of neuroma formation
✔ A minimally invasive alternative to more aggressive surgical procedures
✔ The potential for long-lasting improvement in carefully selected patients

Using real-time ultrasound guidance, the treatment allows for precise placement of the cryoprobe while avoiding surrounding blood vessels and other important structures.

For patients who continue to experience chronic groin pain despite medication, nerve blocks, and rehabilitation, cryoablation may provide an effective treatment option before considering more invasive surgery.

At Somnia Interventional Pain Services, our dedicated team is committed to providing innovative, patient-centred care, with every treatment tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals. We strive to help our patients regain function, improve their quality of life, and return to the activities they enjoy most.

📍 578 Verster Street, Elardus Park, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

01/07/2026

We are incredibly grateful to have shared this special milestone with Marius Prinsloo Orthotics and Prosthetics and Healthpark - Family Healthcentre during the launch of our new practice premises.

Having the opportunity to celebrate this exciting journey together was truly an honour. It reflects the strength of collaboration and our shared commitment to providing exceptional, patient-centred healthcare to our community.

We are excited to be part of this growing healthcare hub and look forward to seeing Marius Prinsloo Orthotics and Healthpark - Family Healthcentre continue to grow and thrive. We have no doubt that your dedication, expertise, and compassion will positively impact countless lives.

Here's to building lasting relationships, supporting one another, and growing together for many years to come.

Congratulations once again, and thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us!

— Dr. Nico Basson & the Somnia Interventional Pain Services Team

29/06/2026

🦵 Chronic Knee Pain? There May Be a Minimally Invasive Solution.

Dr Nico Basson recently treated a 52-year-old runner suffering from chronic knee pain caused by years of "wear and tear" (osteoarthritis). Although the pain affected both knees, there was no instability, and the patient wanted to delay knee replacement surgery for as long as possible while remaining active.

A few months earlier, the patient underwent diagnostic genicular nerve blocks, which resulted in a dramatic reduction in pain for approximately 8 weeks. Based on this excellent response, the next step was Genicular Nerve Cryoablation for longer-lasting pain relief.

The procedure was performed under ultrasound guidance with minimal sedation using the Metrum Cryoflex cryoprobe with nitrous oxide (N₂O), reaching temperatures of -82°C to precisely target the pain-transmitting genicular nerves.

The aim is to provide 12–24 months of pain relief, allowing patients to remain active, improve their quality of life, and potentially delay knee replacement surgery.

If chronic knee pain is affecting your daily life, advanced interventional pain management may offer a safe, minimally invasive treatment option.

Our dedicated team is committed to providing innovative, patient-centred care tailored to each individual's needs.

📍 578 Verster Street, Elardus Park, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

24/06/2026

🧠 GREATER OCCIPITAL NERVE CRYOABLATION - CHRONIC MIGRAINES

Celebrating a wonderful patient outcome in the rooms.

Dr Basson recently treated a 41-year-old woman with a 20-year history of daily, debilitating headaches in the occipital distribution. Her pain had been resistant to multiple medications over the years and significantly impacted her quality of life.

After performing bilateral greater occipital nerve (GON) blocks with local anaesthetic and corticosteroid, she experienced excellent but transient relief – a strong prognostic indicator that a more durable peripheral nerve intervention might help.

On the strength of this response, Dr Basson proceeded with ultrasound-guided bilateral greater occipital nerve cryoablation in the practice. Using high-resolution ultrasound allowed precise identification of the GON, real-time needle visualization, and careful protection of surrounding structures, which is especially important in a relatively superficial, anatomically variable region.

Two weeks post-procedure, she is essentially pain free for the first time in two decades and has been able to stop her daily analgesics 🙌🏻

While every patient is different, published data on occipital nerve cryoablation suggest that when patients respond well to diagnostic blocks, they can expect a meaningful reduction in pain intensity – often in the range of 50–70% – with benefits commonly lasting several months on average, and sometimes longer. Importantly, the procedure is minimally invasive and repeatable, and serious adverse events are uncommon when performed with appropriate imaging guidance and patient selection.

In practice, GON cryoablation is best suited for carefully selected patients with chronic occipital neuralgia or occipital-predominant headache who have:
• Clear clinical features consistent with a GON-mediated pain pattern.
• Robust but short-lived relief from targeted occipital nerve blocks, used deliberately as a prognostic tool rather than just a therapeutic stopgap.

Cases like this highlight the value of combining detailed clinical assessment with image-guided precision interventions to offer patients durable, medication-sparing relief from long-standing pain.

The broader goal is to ensure that modern, life‑changing interventional pain procedures become accessible to more patients in South Africa. As part of this, we have initiated the process of having cryoablation for chronic pain management formally recognised and funded by local medical aid schemes, so that patients are not denied effective care purely on the basis of cost.

The procedure was performed with METRUM CRYOFLEX probe

At Somnia Pain Management, our dedicated team offers advanced treatment options tailored to each patient's unique needs, with a focus on compassionate care and innovative solutions.

📍 578 Verster Street, Elardus Park, Pretoria
📞 060 633 8419
📧 [email protected]

Somnia Interventional Pain Services

27/08/2026

12/08/2026

09/08/2026

05/08/2026

13/07/2026

10/07/2026

01/07/2026

29/06/2026

24/06/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request