A chronic pain condition causes pain that persists for three months or longer, often continuing after an injury or illness has healed. This type of pain can stem from a single factor or a combination of factors, including nerve damage, spinal degeneration, or ongoing inflammation. Pain management specialists focus on identifying the source of discomfort and recommending techniques to help reduce its intensity over time. Here’s information on different pain management techniques a specialist may discuss with you:
Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy
Facet radiofrequency neurotomy, or ablation, is a procedure that targets the small nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine. During this procedure, a specialist inserts a thin needle near the affected nerve using imaging guidance. Radiofrequency energy then heats the nerve tissue to interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain, reducing pain for some individuals. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Because the treated nerves may regenerate over time, some people need to return for repeat procedures.
Before any treatment recommendations, a specialist must evaluate your condition. Unlike short-term pain, chronic pain affects daily activities, sleep, and mobility long-term. A pain management specialist begins with a thorough review of your medical history and a physical examination. During the exam, they assess your range of motion, reflexes, and areas of tenderness.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans help reveal structural issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or joint degeneration. Pain specialists may also use diagnostic injections to pinpoint the specific source of pain, and these results guide the treatment plan. This step-by-step process helps recommended approaches target the actual origin of pain rather than the symptoms alone. When spinal nerves are suspected of causing chronic pain, a specialist may recommend facet radiofrequency ablation options.
Epidural Injection Options
Epidural injections deliver medication into the epidural space, the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. These injections often contain a corticosteroid combined with a local anesthetic, and they are used to address inflammation near irritated nerves. There are several ways to utilize epidural injections, such as with X-ray-guided spinal injections. X-ray-guided spinal epidural injections use a form of imaging called fluoroscopy. This real-time X-ray helps the specialist guide the needle to the precise location, which supports accurate placement of the medication.
Transforaminal epidural steroid injections target a specific nerve root as it exits the spine. For this treatment, the pain specialist directs the medication through the opening where the nerve passes, allowing the treatment to reach a precise area. This approach is often selected when pain follows the path of a particular nerve, offering targeted pain relief.
Spinal Cord Stimulator
A spinal cord stimulator is a small device placed under the skin that sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses modify pain signals before they reach the brain. The stimulator system includes a generator and thin wires called leads, which are positioned near the spine. To verify that this procedure will provide pain relief, a trial procedure is necessary. If the trial provides adequate relief for your symptoms, the specialist will proceed with placing a permanent device. After getting the implanted generator, you can adjust the settings using an external controller to match your pain management needs.
Find a Pain Management Specialist
Choosing the right management technique depends on the source of your pain, your overall health, and your treatment goals. Each option described above serves a different purpose, from targeting specific nerves to modifying pain signals with electrical pulses. A pain management specialist can review your history, order the appropriate tests, and explain which approaches may fit your situation. Working with an experienced provider allows you to understand each option before making a decision. If chronic pain is affecting your daily life, schedule a consultation with a pain specialist today.
