Ketamine therapy involves the administration of ketamine, an anesthetic agent, often at sub-anesthetic doses to address certain health conditions. Originally used for anesthesia in medical procedures, its application has expanded into other clinical areas, including pain management and mental health. Here’s more information on ketamine infusions and what they can do for pain relief:
How Ketamine Blocks Pain
Ketamine functions differently from many traditional pain medications, such as opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its primary mechanism involves blocking a specific set of pain receptors in the spine. This set of receptors plays a significant role in transmitting pain signals from the body to the brain, and their overactivation can contribute to the development of chronic pain.
By inhibiting these receptors, ketamine can interrupt pain signal transmission, which may help reset or modulate pain pathways in the central nervous system. This action can be particularly relevant for neuropathic pain, where nerve damage leads to persistent and often severe pain signals. The multifaceted uses of ketamine make it a resource for managing complex chronic pain. This therapy is typically recommended when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief, and it is administered under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.
Who This Therapy Is For
An evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine if an individual is a suitable candidate for ketamine therapy. This assessment includes a review of the patient’s medical history, current health status, and specific condition. Ketamine therapy may be a viable option for individuals struggling with severe, treatment-resistant conditions. Candidates are those who have exhausted other conventional therapies, such as oral medications, psychotherapy, or physical interventions, without obtaining sufficient relief.
Chronic Pain Conditions
Ketamine therapy is sometimes recommended for various chronic pain conditions, particularly those with a neuropathic component. Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for longer than three to six months, often continuing beyond the expected period of healing. Its debilitating nature can affect daily life, limiting mobility, disrupting sleep, and leading to mental challenges like anxiety and depression. Some conditions that may benefit from therapy include:
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Fibromyalgia
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Cancer-related Pain
- Diabetic Neuropathy
Chronic Mental Health Conditions
Ketamine is also used for certain treatment-resistant mental health conditions, and these conditions can sometimes co-occur with chronic pain. Some mental conditions that may benefit from this therapy include certain forms of bipolar disorders, depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Eligibility is always determined on a case-by-case basis.
How Ketamine Sessions Work
The most common method for administering ketamine for pain is through an intravenous (IV) infusion in a clinical setting. This allows precise control over the dosage and continuous patient monitoring. Other delivery methods include oral tablets, injections, or topical applications, but IV infusion remains a standard approach for systemic treatment. Here are the standard steps of a ketamine therapy session:
- The Pre-assessment: A typical session begins with a pre-assessment to review the patient’s current state and vital signs.
- The Infusion: During the infusion, medical staff closely monitor the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation.
- The Duration: The dosage and duration of the infusion are based on established protocols, though they are often adjusted to meet individual patient needs.
Sessions are personalized for each patient and their health needs, so how many an individual may need varies.
Learn More About Pain Management
Managing chronic pain requires a personalized and comprehensive approach. If you have chronic pain that other treatments cannot provide relief for, contact a pain management specialist for a consultation. A specialist works with you to explore your treatment options and create a customized management plan. Learn more from a provider today.
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