There are always new pain management treatments in the works, which is undoubtedly welcome news to those who suffer from one of the multiple types of pain. Some treatments have also been around for a while, but people are continuously working hard to develop them to be better and more helpful for pain sufferers than they already are. It can be a tough decision to determine which treatments may help you, especially if you have been in pain for an extended time. Do not give up hope. Knowing about these opportunities, such as the ones below, may encourage you to try one of them to see if it would be helpful to you or someone you love.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), which has been around for decades, uses targeted heat applications to help combat pain. The process consists of sending out radio waves via a needle and electrode and is helpful with combating pain in various areas, including the back and neck. The technique destroys certain areas of nerves to prevent them from shooting off pain signals. Please note that it is not ideal for everyone, including pregnant women. Side effects, which can vary from person to person, may range from numbness to bruising.
Ketamine Therapy
Some may hear “ketamine” and question whether it is part of a therapy regimen for those who have chronic pain. However, ketamine therapy is not ideal for everyone. It is typically a last resort option when a multitude of other treatments do not work as anticipated and is often used to help ease neuropathic pain. Administration of ketamine therapy is in low doses via an intravenous drip. How long each treatment session lasts can vary, but it is typically an hour or less, and the effects often happen quickly.
Stem Cell Treatments
Stem cell therapy treats various conditions and diseases, including musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain. As a regenerative therapy, there is no specific amount of time it could work to relieve the pain in areas such as shoulders and knees, as it can vary between patients. The process typically works with your own stem cells as they are harvested from one place and put into the area of your body where you are experiencing pain.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS involves a battery-operated device connected to your body via electrodes that deliver a slight electrical current when experiencing chronic pain — a short-term relief for conditions such as knee pain and arthritis. There are various areas where you cannot apply the electrodes for your safety, including on your temples and where you have varicose veins.
Learning More About Pain Management Treatments
If there are any pain management treatments you are interested in, it is essential to do your research to determine if they are options that apply to your specific condition(s). It is especially vital to do this if you are considering experimental treatments, as little research and studies will likely be available about them. Make sure to only research from reliable sources to get medically sound information.
Write down a list of questions to bring to your pain management doctor to ensure you get any information you want and need about the respective pain management treatments you feel may be ideal for you.
It is vital you only seek pain management treatments from doctors who are legally able to perform them. This treatment plan applies to whether the treatment has been around for years or is an experimental option. Ask for the doctor's credentials before you agree to any treatments. It would help if you also researched to see what you learn about the doctor’s qualifications. When it comes to a delicate situation, such as providing targeted treatments for your chronic pain, it is necessary to do your due diligence.
Call Dr. Brandon Claflin at Oklahoma Interventional Spine & Pain when you are ready to see what treatment options are available to you and your specific type of chronic pain. Our team wants to help you return to enjoying many of the activities you love, engaging once again with your favorite people, and feeling more like yourself. Let’s discuss what pain management treatments we offer. Our office is open Monday through Friday.
