Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While painkillers and other medications can provide temporary relief, they come with their own set of side effects. If you're looking for alternative ways to manage your chronic pain, orthopedic specialists can help. They offer a range of minimally invasive treatments to alleviate pain and promote healing. In this post, we'll explore some of the most common techniques orthopedic specialists use to manage chronic pain.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Epidural steroid injections are a treatment option for chronic back and neck pain. During this procedure, orthopedic specialists inject steroids directly into the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord and nerves. The steroids help reduce inflammation and swelling. This technique provides long-term relief for patients with chronic back and neck pain.
Fluoroscopic-Guided Procedures
Fluoroscopic-guided procedures are another minimally invasive treatment option for chronic pain management. During this procedure, the doctor uses a special X-ray machine to guide the needle to the exact location of the pain. Then, the orthopedic specialist injects medication into the area to provide relief. Doctors often use this technique to administer joint injections and trigger point injections.
Medication Management
Medication management is a critical component of chronic pain management. Orthopedic specialists can prescribe a range of medications to alleviate pain, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants. These medications can help patients manage their pain while minimizing the risk of addiction and dependence.
Peripheral Nerve Blocks
Peripheral nerve blocks are a highly effective treatment for chronic pain focused in a specific body area. Patients who undergo this treatment receive an injection of a local anesthetic or steroid directly into the nerve bundle, which helps to block pain signals. Peripheral nerve blocks help manage headaches, back pain, and joint pain.
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation is a cutting-edge technique doctors use to manage chronic back and leg pain. During this procedure, orthopedic specialists implant a small device under the skin that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses help disrupt pain signals from reaching the brain, providing relief for patients with chronic pain.
Chronic pain can be challenging to manage, but with the help of orthopedic specialists, you can find relief. A range of minimally invasive treatments are available. If you need effective pain management techniques, speak to an orthopedic specialist today. They can help you develop a customized plan to alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.
For more information, contact a company like Alpine Orthopaedic Specialists.
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