Pain management is a medical specialty that focuses on the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of pain. This discipline uses a variety of methods to address pain, which may originate from different sources within the body. An integrative approach combines multiple therapies to create a comprehensive plan tailored to an individual’s specific condition. Here are some integrative approaches to managing pain:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy programs are designed to restore function and mobility, and they are customized for each person’s needs. These programs use specific exercises and manual therapies to improve strength and flexibility where injuries or conditions have caused limitations. Patients follow structured routines under the guidance of a medical provider.
A specialist may use hands-on techniques to manipulate soft tissues, or they might introduce assistive devices to aid movement. They document progress at regular intervals while the treatment plan is adjusted based on functional gains and reported pain levels. The goal is to improve physical abilities by engaging in supervised activity.
Localized Nerve Blocks
Localized nerve blocks target specific nerves that transmit pain signals. A specialist can inject a local anesthetic near the nerve or group of nerves, which interrupts the pain signals that are being sent to the brain. They may perform this procedure with imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, for precision.
The injection typically contains a numbing agent, and sometimes an anti-inflammatory medication is added to reduce irritation around the nerve. A nerve block procedure for pain management involves a few key steps:
- Identifying the target nerve pathway.
- Administering a local anesthetic to numb the skin.
- Guiding the needle to the precise location for medication delivery.
Patients are monitored after the procedure for a short period before being discharged. The duration of relief from a nerve block varies among individuals and depends on the specific medication they use and the condition.
Injectable Steroids
Epidural steroid injections deliver corticosteroid medication directly into the epidural space of the spine. This space is located just outside the membrane that covers the spinal cord, and giving medication here targets inflammation at the source. Because medical providers place medicines at the site of nerve root irritation, it may reduce local swelling and alleviate associated pain.
Providers typically perform the procedure on an outpatient basis, using tools to guide the needle to the correct position. The volume of medication varies for certain injections because of different goals. Patients may receive a series of injections over several months.
The amount of medication is carefully measured, but the patient’s response dictates the frequency and number of future injections. Some protocols limit the number of injections a person may receive in a year to manage potential side effects. These injections are one component of a broader treatment strategy.
Combined Methods
Integrating different therapies allows for a multifaceted approach to managing pain. A physician may recommend physical therapy to improve biomechanics while using injections to manage acute inflammation, creating a synergistic effect. Combining methods addresses both the symptoms and the underlying mechanical issues.
Schedule Pain Management Services
The goal of a pain management plan is to address pain from multiple angles. It involves a detailed evaluation to determine which combination of therapies aligns with a patient’s diagnosis and medical history. Schedule an appointment so you can discuss your condition and learn about available treatment options.
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