Spinal and nerve pain can make everyday activities difficult. When medications and physical therapy aren’t enough, advanced interventions can provide relief by addressing the source of pain directly.
Understanding Spinal and Nerve Pain
Spinal and nerve pain can result from various conditions, including:
- Herniated Discs: When cushioning discs between the vertebrae press on nearby nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves.
- Radiculopathy: Nerve root irritation causing pain, numbness, or weakness radiating to the limbs.
- Neuropathy: Damage or dysfunction of peripheral nerves, leading to burning, tingling, or shooting pain.
- Spinal Facet Arthropathy: Arthritis of the small joints in the spine, causing localized back pain and stiffness, sometimes radiating to the limbs.
What Are Interventional Pain Procedures?
Interventional pain management uses minimally invasive techniques to target pain at its source. These procedures are designed to:
- Reduce inflammation.
- Relieve pressure on nerves.
- Interrupt pain signals to the brain.
Common Interventions for Spinal and Nerve Pain
- Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)
- Anti-inflammatory medication is delivered into the epidural space of the spine.
- Used for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and radiculopathy.
- Provides relief that can last weeks to months.
- Nerve Blocks
- A local anesthetic is injected near a specific nerve to numb pain.
- Ideal for diagnostic purposes and short-term relief.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
- Heat is used to deactivate pain-causing nerves.
- Conventional RFA is effective for spinal facet arthropathy, facet joint pain, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
- Pulsed RFA use less heat to deactivate pain while preserve normal nerve function.
- Offers longer-lasting relief than nerve blocks.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
- A small device implanted near the spine delivers electrical impulses to mask pain signals.
- Effective for chronic pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
- Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)
- Similar to SCS but targets peripheral nerves outside the spinal cord.
- Useful for localized nerve pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia, painful neuroma
- Facet Joint Injections
- Medication is injected directly into the facet joints, or the nerve that innervate the sensation of facet joint, to reduce inflammation and pain caused by spinal facet arthropathy.
Are These Procedures Right for You?
Diagnostic blocks and interventional treatments may be recommended if:
- Conservative Approaches Have Failed: Medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes haven’t provided sufficient relief.
- Pain Interferes With Daily Life: Moderate to severe discomfort limits your ability to work, move, or enjoy everyday activities.
- Structural Issues Are Identified: Imaging tests, such as MRIs or CT scans, reveal physical abnormalities contributing to your symptoms.
- Major Surgery Is Not an Option: You’re not a candidate for extensive procedures like spinal fusion or decompression due to health concerns or personal preference.
- Diagnosis Needs Clarification: The source of pain is uncertain, and interventional methods, such as diagnostic nerve blocks, can pinpoint the problem for targeted treatment.
A detailed evaluation, including medical history, physical exams, and imaging, will help identify the best approach for your situation.
Benefits of Interventional Pain Management
- Minimally Invasive: Most procedures are outpatient and require little recovery time.
- Precise Relief: Targets pain without widespread side effects.
- Enhanced Activity: Helps you regain the ability to enjoy daily tasks and hobbies.
- Help clarify the diagnosis
What to Expect During Treatment
Procedures are performed under local anesthesia or light sedation. They are usually completed within an hour, with minimal downtime. Most patients resume their activities shortly after treatment.
Managing Spinal and Nerve Pain
Spinal and nerve pain can have a significant impact on your daily life. With the right approach, relief is possible. Whether it’s a herniated disc, spinal facet arthropathy, or chronic back pain, we can work together to identify the most suitable treatment options for your situation.
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Disclaimer
This fact sheet is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options.
The information provided here reflects general practices and may not apply to your individual health circumstances. Outcomes and risks may vary depending on your medical history, condition, and response to treatment.
If you experience any concerning symptoms or side effects following a procedure, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency medical attention.
This material is not intended to promote or endorse any specific treatment or procedure. Decisions about your healthcare should always be made in consultation with your physician, considering your unique health needs and goals.
Ekkapot Jitpun, MD 