Interventional Pain Management
What is interventional pain management?
Interventional pain management, or interventional pain medicine, is a specialized field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating chronic pain through minimally invasive techniques. The goal is to relieve pain by targeting the nervous system.
This direct approach can be particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief through conventional treatments such as oral medications or physical therapy.
Unlike traditional pain management methods that often rely heavily on medications, interventional approaches are designed to address the root cause of pain directly. These techniques reduce the reliance on opioids and other pain medications that can have significant side effects and potential for dependency.
Our patients benefit from a holistic approach that integrates various modalities to achieve optimal pain relief and improve functionality.
Benefits of Interventional Pain Management
Minimally invasive:
These procedures involve small incisions or injections, reducing the risk of infection and shortening recovery time compared to surgery.
Targeted treatment:
These procedures specifically target the source of pain in the nervous system,
Improved quality of life:
Chronic pain can greatly impact a person's daily life and activities. By effectively managing pain, patients can experience improved mood, better sleep, and increased mobility.
Reduced reliance on medication:
Not only does interventional pain management eliminate the need for addictive pain medication, it provides more effective and longer-lasting relief than medication alone.
Conditions Treated with Interventional Pain Management at MIMIT Health
Knee osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage within the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the protective cartilage wears away over time, bones in the joint may begin to rub against each other, resulting in inflammation and the formation of bone spurs.
Chronic joint pain
Chronic joint pain refers to persistent discomfort and aching in the joints, lasting for months or even years. This condition can arise from various causes, such as arthritis, injuries, or underlying health disorders such as bursitis or gout. Symptoms might include swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, significantly impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a warning sign of injury or inflammation, chronic joint pain can continue long after the initial cause has been addressed.
Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through each leg. It can be caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other underlying conditions. The pain can vary in intensity and may also be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg. Interventional pain management techniques such as epidural injections and nerve blocks can help relieve symptoms of sciatica and improve overall function.
Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the discs, which act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae in the spine. As these discs degenerate over time, they can cause pain and discomfort in the back, neck, arms, or legs. This condition can also lead to nerve compression and other related issues.
Vertebral compression fractures
Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are small cracks or breaks in the vertebrae, which can be caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or other underlying conditions. These fractures can cause severe back pain and limit mobility. Interventional pain management techniques such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty aim to stabilize the fractured vertebrae and alleviate pain.
Hip osteoarthritis
Hip osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that affects the hip joint, where the cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones gradually wears away. This deterioration leads to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion as the bones begin to rub against each other.
Chronic back pain
Chronic back pain, or persistent discomfort in the upper, middle, or lower regions of the back, can be caused by various factors such as muscle strains, injuries, structural issues with the spine, and underlying conditions. This type of pain can significantly affect daily activities and overall well-being if left untreated. Interventional pain management techniques aim to target the root cause of chronic back pain while providing long-term relief.
Diabetic neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes. It often affects the nerves in the hands and feet, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain. As diabetic neuropathy progresses, it can lead to more severe complications such as decreased mobility and increased risk of infections or ulcers. Interventional pain management techniques can help manage the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and improve overall nerve function.
Interventional Procedures at MIMIT Health
Injections
Epidural steroid injections
Epidural steroid injections are used for pain management in the back and neck.
During this procedure, a corticosteroid medication mixed with an anesthetic is injected into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord. The goal of these injections is to reduce inflammation in the affected area, providing relief from pain and other symptoms. Epidural steroid injections can help manage a variety of conditions that cause back or neck pain, like degenerative disc disease.
B12 Shots
Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health and energy production, playing a critical role in maintaining overall health and well-being. B12 shots are a quick and effective way to boost levels of this vital nutrient, which can be particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain, especially when related to neuropathy or fatigue. Adequate levels of B12 can help maintain the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers, preventing nerve damage and the associated pain.
Additionally, B12 shots can combat fatigue and improve overall vitality. Improved mood and mental clarity can positively impact a patient's ability to manage pain and improve their quality of life.
Trigger point injections
Trigger point injections are a common procedure used in interventional pain management to relieve and control pain. These injections target specific areas of tight or knotted muscle fibers, known as trigger points, which can cause pain radiating to other parts of the body.
During the procedure, a small needle is inserted directly into the trigger point, delivering a local anesthetic, saline, or corticosteroid to relax the muscle and alleviate pain.
By addressing the source of discomfort, trigger point injections can reduce muscle tension and improve range of motion, providing patients with near-immediate pain relief. At MIMIT Health, we perform these injections in-office. It's an effective way to manage pain without significant disturbance to the patient’s daily activities.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid injections are primarily used for joint pain, particularly for those with osteoarthritis. This treatment involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into the joint space. As a result, it improves joint movement and reduces pain by enhancing the synovial fluid, which helps joints glide smoothly.
Hyaluronic acid injections also protect joints from further damage.
Patients often experience prolonged relief, making it a preferred option for chronic joint pain. With effects lasting several months, hyaluronic acid injections offer a sustainable solution for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.
Cortisone injections
Cortisone injections have been used for pain management for many years, providing reliable relief for a variety of conditions. Cortisone injections reduce inflammation and provide relief from pain, often within hours of administration. This rapid response can be crucial for patients experiencing acute flare-ups. They are effective for conditions like arthritis and tendonitis.
While cortisone shots are not a cure, they can be a valuable part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
Stem cell therapy for pain
Stem cell therapy for pain represents a revolutionary approach in interventional pain management. This method utilizes the body's own stem cells to repair damaged tissues and reduce inflammation, offering a natural and effective means of pain relief.
Stem cells have the unique ability to differentiate into various types of cells, making them ideal for tissue repair. This versatility allows stem cells to target and heal diverse areas of the body, from joints to spinal discs. Stem cell therapy can also significantly diminish pain levels. Patients often experience a noticeable reduction in pain and improved mobility soon after treatment.
Furthermore, the minimally invasive nature of the procedure means patients can benefit from the therapy without the risks associated with surgical interventions.
Platelet rich fibrin therapy
Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) therapy is a popular therapy at MIMIT Health. It's another form of regenerative medicine that utilizes the body's natural healing mechanisms. This treatment involves extracting platelets from the patient's blood and injecting them into the affected area to promote tissue repair and reduce pain. Platelets contain growth factors and other healing components that can help repair damaged tissues. By concentrating these platelets in a specific area, PRF therapy enhances the body's ability to heal itself. Like stem cell therapy, PRF therapy is minimally invasive, making it a preferred option for patients seeking non-surgical solutions for their chronic pain conditions. PRF therapy can be used to treat various conditions, including arthritis, tendonitis, and musculoskeletal injuries. It also has a short recovery time, so patients can resume their daily activities soon after treatment.
Dextrose Prolotherapy
Dextrose prolotherapy is a regenerative treatment for joint pain, ligament injuries, and tendinopathies that involves injecting a dextrose and saline solution into the affected area to stimulate the body's natural healing process. It is particularly effective for chronic conditions where tissue damage is persistent and other treatments have failed to provide lasting relief. It also promotes tissue repair and regeneration, too.
It works by triggering a mild inflammatory response, which encourages the body to repair and strengthen damaged tissues. This controlled inflammation acts as a catalyst for healing, drawing cells to the site that play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration.
Dextrose prolotherapy sessions are typically quick, with minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities with little interruption.
Prolotherapy injections
Personalized pain management at MIMIT Health
Selecting the appropriate interventional pain management technique depends on several factors, including the type and severity of pain, patient health, and previous treatments tried. Treatments should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and conditions to ensure the most effective outcomes.
Evaluation
Comprehensive evaluation of your medical history and current health status is the first step we take in developing an effective pain management strategy. This includes diagnostic imaging and other assessments to pinpoint the source of pain.
Choosing the right therapy
In many cases, a combination of different techniques may be employed for optimal results. This can address various aspects of pain, providing a more holistic approach to treatment.
Consult with one of our healthcare providers at MIMIT Health who specialize in pain management to determine the best course of action.
Monitoring
Continuous monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan as needed ensure that the patient receives the best possible care. Regular follow-ups allow us to assess progress and make necessary modifications to your treatment.
Interventional Pain Management in Chicago and the Suburbs
MIMIT Health has interventional pain management in Chicago and the Chicago suburbs. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained specialists provide the latest advancements in pain management to help patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced treatments ensure that our patients receive personalized, effective care for their chronic pain conditions. With a focus on minimally invasive techniques, we strive to reduce risks while maximizing results.
If you are experiencing chronic pain, contact MIMIT Health today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced providers. We can help develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your pain and improve your overall well-being. Don't let pain control your life – take control of it!