Chronic pain is pain that persists beyond the normal time for tissue healing, typically lasting for three to six months or longer. This type of ongoing pain can significantly affect an individual’s daily function and overall quality of life. Pain management is a coordinated, multidisciplinary branch of medicine focused on reducing pain and improving function. Here’s more information on different treatments for pain management plans:
Radiofrequency Ablation
An integrative approach to managing chronic pain involves combining multiple treatment modalities to address its complex nature. This approach may incorporate medication management, interventional procedures, physical rehabilitation, behavioral strategies, and lifestyle adjustments. Management plans are for adults experiencing chronic pain from various sources, including musculoskeletal, neuropathic, or post-surgical issues.
Some chronic health conditions with persistent pain include:
- Spinal Stenosis
- Neuropathy
- Migraines
- Fibromyalgia
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Arthritis
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a pain management procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves. Under image guidance, a specialized needle is positioned near a target sensory nerve. An electrical current is then passed through the needle to create a lesion on the nerve, which can disrupt its ability to transmit pain signals. The duration of any resulting symptom relief varies among individuals, and the procedure may be repeated for some individuals.
Nerve Blocks
Beyond numbing an area, nerve blocks reduce inflammation, calm overactive nerves, and help reset the body’s pain communication pathways. Nerve blocks interrupt pain signals traveling along specific nerves. By injecting local anesthetics, steroids, or other medications near targeted nerves, nerve blocks can provide both temporary and, in some cases, longer-lasting relief from chronic pain.
For individuals with chronic pain conditions, nerve blocks are often part of a comprehensive pain management strategy. They may be used to manage pain associated with conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuropathy, or spinal issues, like degenerative disc disease. Nerve blocks can also serve as diagnostic tools, helping healthcare providers identify the specific nerves involved in a patient’s pain.
Facet Nerve Injections
Facet nerve injections target the small nerves connected to the facet joints of the spine. Facet joints are small spinal joints that reduce movements to avoid hyperextension or over-twisting of the spine. During the procedure, a clinician uses image guidance, like fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to direct a needle to the specific medial branch nerves. These injections can help determine if a particular facet joint is the source of pain and may provide short-term symptom relief.
Cervical Steroid Injections
Steroids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which is why they are used in cervical epidural injections. Cervical epidural steroid injections are administered in the neck to address pain from irritated spinal nerves. The primary purpose is often diagnostic and to provide temporary relief from symptoms.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) involves placing a small wire, or lead, near a specific peripheral nerve that is thought to be the source of pain. The lead delivers mild electrical impulses from a small, wearable generator, which may be external or implanted. This minimally invasive neuromodulation technique is recommended after a thorough screening with a medical provider.
After verifying a patient’s candidacy for nerve stimulation, the treatment process begins with a trial period. A temporary system is used to evaluate its effect before a permanent system is placed. The device’s settings are adjustable and can be programmed to meet an individual’s specific needs. A key aspect of PNS is its reversibility, as the system may be removed if necessary.
Learn More About Pain Management
Creating a comprehensive, integrative plan that may combine interventional, rehabilitative, and behavioral components is a collaborative process between you and your healthcare provider. A specialist can help you learn what management options may effectively reduce your chronic pain symptoms. Contact a provider today for a consultation.
