Orlando Central Pain Syndrome Specialists
Central pain syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes chronic, ongoing pain. It can be difficult to treat and can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, interventional pain management can provide relief and help patients better manage their condition.
Ketamine Infusions
Ketamine infusions are one of the most common interventional treatments used for central pain syndrome. Ketamine is an anesthetic medication that has been found to have a positive effect on nerve-related chronic pain, particularly when administered as an infusion over some time. During treatment, patients receive small doses of ketamine intravenously over an extended period (typically 4-6 hours). The effects are usually seen within 24 hours and can last anywhere from 1-7 days or more. Research has shown that ketamine infusions can be effective in reducing both Pain Intensity (PI) and Pain Quality (PQ) scores in patients with chronic pain conditions such as central pain syndrome.
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Another option for treating central pain syndrome is spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which involves sending electrical signals directly to the spine to reduce or eliminate pain signals from reaching the brain. This treatment is effective in treating certain types of chronic back and leg pain associated with central pain syndrome. The device used for SCS is implanted under the skin and connected to leads placed near the spinal cord or nerves responsible for transmitting painful signals. Once activated, it sends out low doses of electrical energy which block or reduce the transmission of these signals, thus providing relief from chronic pain symptoms.
Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks are another type of interventional treatment used to relieve chronic neck, arm, and back pains associated with central pain syndrome. During this procedure, a doctor will inject an anesthetic into specific areas around nerves that transmit pain signals from affected areas like the neck or lower back. This injection temporarily blocks these nerves from sending those signals so that patients experience reduced levels of discomfort or none at all for several hours after treatment. Nerve blocks are often used in combination with other forms of therapy such as physical therapy or medications to achieve optimal results in managing chronic pains associated with central pain syndrome.
Summary
Interventional treatments can offer much-needed relief from chronic pains accompanying Central Pain Syndrome; however, it is important to note that each patient’s situation is unique and different treatments may be more suitable than others depending on their individual needs and condition. It is recommended that anyone seeking treatment for Central Pain Syndrome consult with their doctor about what options may be best suited for them before undergoing any form of interventional therapy including ketamine infusions, spinal cord stimulation or nerve blocks, etc. With proper guidance and care, these treatments can help individuals find relief so they can go about their daily lives without worrying about debilitating pains caused by Central Pain Syndrome.