Interventional pain management is a type of treatment that involves the use of specific procedures to diagnose and treat pain. These procedures can be used to identify the source of pain and provide targeted relief. Interventional pain procedures are typically performed by highly specialized physicians that have received specialized training (residency and fellowship) in the use of procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of pain.
Some examples of interventional pain procedures include:
● Epidural injections: Epidural injections involve injecting a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space, which is the area around the spinal cord. These injections can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the lower back, neck, and legs.
● Nerve blocks: Nerve blocks involve injecting a medication near a specific nerve or group of nerves to block pain signals. These procedures can be used to diagnose the source of pain and provide temporary or long-term relief.
● Radiofrequency ablation: Radiofrequency ablation involves the use of radio waves to heat and damage a specific nerve, disrupting the transmission of pain signals. This procedure can provide long-term pain relief for certain types of chronic pain.
● Spinal cord stimulation: Spinal cord stimulation involves the use of a small device that is implanted under the skin and sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses can help to block or modify pain signals.
There are a number of benefits to interventional pain management. These procedures can provide targeted pain relief and help to improve function and quality of life. They can also be used to diagnose the source of pain and guide other treatment options.
It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if interventional pain management is appropriate for your specific needs and pain condition. They can help determine the most appropriate treatment option and ensure that it is safe and effective.
