Regenerative Therapy Doctors NY | Spinal Cord Stimulator
Spinal cord stimulators work by implanting neurostimulation devices to inhibit pain sensation. Even after trying different treatment methods, if you are still experiencing chronic back pain, don't give up. Dr. Ilana Etelzon is an expert in the latest pain relief options, including spinal cord stimulation. Pain management specialists such as neurosurgeons and anesthesiologists (physicians) implant spinal cord stimulators. In order to determine whether a spinal cord stimulator is appropriate, a surgical decision must be made.
Stage 1. Temporary Trial
You must first determine whether the device reduces your pain level during a temporary trial. The purpose of an SCS trial is to determine if it will work for the type, location, and severity of your pain. Most procedures are performed in outpatient centers or in surgical suites in offices. It is recommended that you stop taking blood-thinning medications three to seven days before the trial. A local anesthetic is used to numb the lower back area. To reach the epidural space, an X-ray fluoroscopy is used to insert a hollow needle through the skin. The trial lead is inserted and placed over specific nerves. An external generator is taped over your skin, and the wires are connected to it. Generally, the procedure takes 30 minutes to complete. You will be followed up on a daily basis by a representative, and it is important to keep track of how the stimulator affects your pain, sleep, function, and the need for pain medication. The trial leads will be removed after 5 to 7 days, and you will discuss whether or not to go ahead with the implant.
Stage 2. Surgical implant
The SCS can be implanted into your body if you experienced greater than 50% improvement in pain, sleep, or function after the trial. The device is similar to a pacemaker in size and is placed under your skin during a minimally invasive procedure. You may choose to place the implant in your lower back or buttocks, depending on your comfort level. To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, anesthesia or sedation is typically administered during the two-hour implant procedure. Since you will be going home the same day, you will need someone to accompany you. Complications associated with minor surgical procedures include anesthetic risks, infection risks, poor wound healing, and pain at the surgery site. Within a few weeks or months following any procedure, these issues usually resolve on their own. Even in mild or temporary cases, complications rarely result in serious injuries or even death.
Recovery After Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure
Implantation of the device may result in complications, including loss of pain relief, lead migration, allergy, and discomfort or pain. Complications can be resolved by reprogramming, medically treating, surgically correcting, or removing the device altogether.
The recovery process takes about four to eight weeks. Avoid lifting heavy items, twisting, bending, climbing, stretching, and any movement involving reaching over your head during this time.
You can usually swim, travel, and resume your favorite activities after your recovery period with the approval of your doctor.
Spinal cord stimulators are covered by nearly all major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Contact us today!
Pain Relief Doctor Brooklyn | Navigating Chronic Spinal Pain
As the body's central support structure, it is no secret how important a healthy spine is to a healthy and functioning human. The importance of the spine, however, is equally matched by its function in connecting the brain to the rest of the body, allowing us to control our movement and innervating muscles from the top of our heads to the bottom of our feet. However, due to the nature of our physiology, the spine tends to be a common source of pain and injury. And as a result of its major role in our everyday function, pain stemming from the spine has the potential to be debilitating, mitigating many aspects of movement and preventing us from living life to its fullest.
When presented with symptoms stemming from the spinal cord, physicians employ a bevy of treatments to battle the pain. This can range from prescribing pain medications, performing minimally invasive procedures such as epidural steroid injections, all the way to major surgeries such as a spinal fusion or laminectomy. Oftentimes, however, patients don’t find conservative treatments to be of much help, and are weary of going under the knife for one of the aforementioned surgeries. It is in circumstances such as these in which the Spinal Cord Stimulator becomes such an effective tool.
The Spinal Cord stimulator is a small device, much like a pacemaker, that is surgically placed under the skin and delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord. Thin wires carry current from a pulse generator to nerve fibers of the spinal cord. The impulses that are sent compete with the body's pain signals and as a result, mask the pain radiating from the spine before they reach the brain by blocking or modifying them. In short, the stimulator prevents the brain from receiving pain signals originating from the spine. This proves especially advantageous in patients who suffer from chronic leg or arm pain, failed back surgery syndrome, non-surgical refractory back pain, complex regional pain syndrome, arachnoiditis, or painful diabetic neuropathy.
The procedure itself consists of a two-step process performed by doctors and surgeons who specialize in pain management. First, a temporary trial is observed. Similar to a test drive of sorts, the stimulator is externally applied and left for 5 to 7 days, allowing both the provider and patient to gauge the effectiveness of the spinal cord stimulator in their particular case. Should the trial prove successful, a designation which in this case represents at least a 50% improvement in pain, sleep, and function, patients can move onto the second stage of the process: the actual implantation of the device within the body. In this minimally invasive procedure, the stimulator is implanted under the skin in the lower back or buttocks area. The procedure takes up to two hours and is performed with anesthesia or sedation, allowing for a comfortable and minimally painful process that allows the patient to go home the same day. After the procedure is complete and the stimulator is implanted, a typical recovery period lasts roughly 4-8 weeks during which patients can engage in light activity while striving to avoid any strenuous physical movements.
As a device that has been established as a staple of chronic pain management over the past 30 years, the spinal cord stimulator continues to grow in prevalence with upwards of 30,000 people annually electing to undergo surgery to have it implanted. And the data only strengthens its case, with studies showing long term relief in 50-80% of patients who suffered from chronic pain, coupled with an impressive reported average of 76% pain reduction. The spinal cord stimulator is a tool that has allowed countless patients to return to the activities they love, and in the process has become a part of the backbone of modern pain management. With the device now more easily accessible than ever, it is certainly worth considering for a large part of the population who was previously in the dark about its brilliance.
Written By: Ben Klass
Regenerative medicine for pain relief doctor in NY - Free consultations available
The goal of regenerative medicine, also known as cellular therapy, is to rebuild damaged tissues by using your own natural healing process. The most advanced form of pain management is regenerative medicine, in which your pain management doctor uses cells from your body to replace, regenerate, repair, or reboot damaged or aged tissues, organs, or joints. For natural healing, your doctor may use your own blood growth factors, exogenous broth factors, or bone marrow aspirate. In order to accomplish this, your doctor takes healthy tissues from one part of your body and transplants them into the diseased, degenerated, or injured area. In this procedure, damaged tissue is rebuilt, pain is relieved, and injuries are healed without surgery or medication.
Our approach to regenerative medicine in pain management, here at Pain Doctors Medical, involves using the body's natural healing processes to promote tissue regeneration and repair, thereby reducing pain and improving overall function. Have questions? call for a consultation 718.682.3686.
Cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells in the body. By harnessing the power of cells, doctors can encourage the growth of new tissue and promote healing in areas of the body that are causing pain. Another promising approach in regenerative medicine is the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP is a concentrated solution of platelets and growth factors that is derived from the patient's own blood. When injected into an injured area, PRP can stimulate the body's natural healing processes and promote tissue regeneration, reducing pain and inflammation.
Other regenerative medicine approaches for pain management include the use of growth factors, which can stimulate the growth of new tissue, and gene therapy, which involves using genes to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
Regenerative Pain Doctors Medical | Unlock Long Lasting Pain Relief
Is chronic pain holding you back? Explore the groundbreaking approach to pain management at Pain Doctors Medical. Our skilled team of pain doctors leverages the most recent advances in regenerative medicine to deliver enduring relief for numerous pain conditions. Dr. Ilana Etelzon is leading the future of pain management through innovative regenerative medicine procedures at her NYC practice, Pain Doctors Medical, offering hope to individuals suffering chronic pain through non-operative and minimally invasive therapies that use your body’s healing processes to address everything from rotator cuff tears to debilitating spinal conditions, with personalized treatment plans customized specifically to each patient’s unique requirements.
Regenerative medicine is revolutionizing pain management through cell therapy treatments, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and other advanced techniques that promote natural healing and recovery. Dr. Etelzon’s practice stands at the forefront of this medical revolution by offering cutting-edge options such as viscous supplementation and Via Disc NP Allograft for treating joint and muscle pain without surgery or long-term medication use. Her dedication to researching and applying only those regenerative procedures most suitable to each individual ensures patients achieve positive results marked by reduced downtime and long-term relief from suffering.
Dr. Etelzon’s NYC practice, Pain Doctors Medical, offers New Yorkers experiencing chronic pain an effective alternative to traditional pain management methods with her Regenerative Pain Doctor service, offering immediate and long-term healing through Regenerative Medicine treatments available here. Regenerative medicine supports faster, more sustainable healing than ever before while freeing them of limitations related to pain. The renowned regenerative pain doctor in NY, Dr. Etelzon’s advanced facility provides innovative care that prioritizes their body’s natural ability for repair and improvement, helping New Yorkers live lives free from discomfort!
Whether you’re experiencing pain in your back, neck, shoulder, or knee, our treatments aim to help you reclaim control of your life. Don’t hesitate to contact us at one of our locations listed below!
Brooklyn 718.682.3686 | Spring Valley 844.373.2772 | Newburgh 844.373.2772 | Clifton 718.682.3686
At Pain Doctors Medical, our aim is to provide a service that is effective enough to help patients progress rapidly to rehabilitation, prioritizing their return to work, movement, and daily activities with minimal discomfort. By seeking consultation at Pain Doctors Medical’s medical practice, patients can expect a comprehensive treatment approach that accelerates their recovery and helps them live pain-free.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Regenerative therapy in pain medicine includes various methods, including cell therapy treatment, platelet-rich plasma therapy, viscous supplementation and prolotherapy, to manage chronic pain effectively and treat chronic symptoms.
According to our patients’ experiences, many begin experiencing improvement within six weeks following regenerative medicine therapy and procedure. Over 4-6 months following your procedure, you should notice further enhancement and change as part of its healing properties.
Nine patients (47.37%) experienced significant pain reduction immediately following treatment; 14 (73.68%) experienced it within one week; and 15 patients (78.95%) saw their discomfort significantly decreased between one month, two months, and three months post-treatment.
PRP works over several weeks to encourage tissues to regrow and regenerate; most individuals experience maximum benefits approximately six weeks post-injection. Furthermore, you can have additional treatments to promote further tissue repair.
Platelets contain growth factors which stimulate cell division and regeneration while speeding the healing process. Studies indicate that PRP for knee osteoarthritis often stops progression while simultaneously relieving symptoms.
Regenerative therapies can provide great relief from soft tissue injuries such as strains and strain strains to muscles, ligaments and tendons, while PRP therapy has become particularly helpful in alleviating back and knee osteoarthritis-induced discomfort. We often employ this approach at our center.
Regenerative medicine procedures may include cell therapy treatments where cells from fat, blood or bone marrow are harvested, purified and injected directly into damaged areas; platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections utilizing concentrated levels of patient’s platelets to accelerate healing in injured tendons ligaments, muscles or joints; viscous supplementation which introduces hyaluronic acid into joints for use as lubricant commonly employed to relieve knee pain relief; viscous supplementation is another innovative approach introduced into joints to increase joint comfort; other innovative approaches include Saline solution injections to stimulate healing while Via Disc NP Allograft used to treat back pain relief.
Regenerative medicine uses cells sourced directly from patients’ own fat, blood, or bone marrow and places them into a centrifuge to allow doctors to identify and separate cells to find those best suited for therapy treatment.
Could Regenerative Therapy Relieve Back Pain? - Pain Doctors Medical
Regenerative therapy for back pain is a hot topic in the world of medicine and wellness. These treatments use the body's natural healing processes to repair damaged tissues and reduce pain. They are non-invasive, safe, and can be highly effective in relieving back pain and restoring function.
One of the most popular regenerative treatments for back pain is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP therapy involves extracting a small amount of blood from the patient, separating the platelets and growth factors, and injecting them into the affected area. The platelets and growth factors stimulate the body's natural healing processes, promoting the growth of new tissue and reducing inflammation. PRP therapy has been shown to be effective in relieving lower back pain and improving mobility. Another popular regenerative treatment for back pain is tissue-derived allografts therapy. Tissue-derived allografts are tissues or cells that are donated by one individual and transplanted into another. They are used to repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. Tissue-derived allografts therapy involves injecting the allografts into the affected area, where they stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Tissue-derived allografts therapy has been shown to be effective in relieving back pain and improving function.
Other regenerative treatments for back pain include prolotherapy, which involves injecting a substance into the affected area to stimulate the growth of new tissue and reduce inflammation, and ultrasound-guided injection therapy, which uses ultrasound to guide the injection of medications or other substances into the affected area.
While regenerative treatments for back pain are generally safe and effective, they may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to discuss the effectiveness of these treatments with a healthcare specialist before starting any new treatment.
Regenerative therapy for back pain, such as PRP therapy and tissue-derived allografts therapy, are promising options for relieving pain and restoring function. They are non-invasive, safe, and can be highly effective in many cases. If you are considering a regenerative treatment for back pain, it is important to speak with a healthcare specialist to determine if it is right for you.
Pain Doctors Medical - 2 Locations to best serve you!
Brooklyn Office
35 West End Ave PH1,
Brooklyn New York 11235 | Directions
Phone | 718.682.3686
Spring Valley Office
17 Perlman Dr. #201
Spring Vallery New York 10977 | Directions
Phone | 844.373.2772
Regenerative Medicine Procedures
Regenerative medicine, also known as cellular therapy, leverages your natural healing process to rebuild damaged tissues. In regenerative medicine procedures, your pain management doctor uses cells from your body to replace, regenerate, repair or reboot injured or aged tissues, organs or joints. Regenerative medicine is the most advanced form of treatment you can get.
The process may rely on growth factors from your own blood, exogenous broth factors or bone marrow aspirate to promote the natural healing process. To accomplish this, your doctor takes bone marrow or other healthy tissues from one part of your body and delivers it into the diseased, degenerated or injured part. The procedure rebuilds damaged tissue, relieves pain and heals injuries without use of medication or surgery.
Regenerative medicine is a relatively new field, but ongoing research has discovered new ways to unlock the potential of the treatment method. The most common regenerative medicine procedures include:
- Stem cell treatments. This is a popular regenerative therapy in which your doctor harvests stem cells, or unformed cells, from your fat, blood or bone marrow. After purification and concentration, the stem cells are injected into an injured or diseased part of your body.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. For this regenerative therapy, Dr. Etelzon creates platelet-rich plasma from your blood. Then she injects the concentrated mixture into the injured cartilage, tendon or whatever needs to heal.
- This is a type of regenerative therapy to treat joint and muscle pain. Your doctor injects a saline solution into the injured or degenerated joint or muscle to cause irritation. The ensuing reaction forces your immune system to react to heal the injured joint or muscle.
- Viscous Supplementation. Also referred to as viscosupplementation, this procedure introduces a gel-like component called hyaluronic acid into a joint to serve as a lubricant when osteoarthritis has worn away the pads between your bones. This is a common procedure for treating knee pain.
- Via Disc NP Allograft
Have questions for us? book a consultation or complete a contact form, we reply promptly.
Nerve Block Injections (Updated 2023)
A nerve block injection reduces swelling or stops pain along a particular nerve distribution. Your physician may utilize imaging guidance to direct the needle to the most favorable location. A nerve block can help figure out the exact cause of pain, temporarily relieve pain, and let a damaged nerve heal.
Uses of the Procedure
Nerve block injections may temporarily relieve those suffering from acute or chronic pain. This kind of pain usually starts in the spine but can also start in the legs, neck, arms, or buttocks.
They also allow a damaged nerve to recuperate from a condition of constant pain. Furthermore, nerve blocks may give diagnostic information to the clinician. They enable the doctor to determine the cause of your suffering and design a treatment plan. An anesthesiologist may perform nerve blocks before surgery to lessen postoperative discomfort.
What Should I Do To Prepare for the Injection?
A nerve block seldom needs any particular preparation. You may be required to wear a robe throughout the process. Before the procedure, the physician will most likely request that you use the toilet. You might lie on your side, back, or stomach, depending on the nerve block utilized.
Required Equipment
The injection location will be accessed using a tiny needle inserted into the skin. A modest quantity of contrast material might be used to ensure that the needle has been properly positioned if required. The medication will be administered using a normal immunization syringe.
The physician will administer medicine into the syringe. They will prescribe medicine based on your unique requirements. Extra tools will be all around you if imaging guidance is being utilized.
How is the Process Carried Out?
This treatment is usually performed as an outpatient. However, some people may need hospitalization after the treatment. Consult your doctor if you need to be hospitalized.
A nerve block is often administered just before surgery. It takes just a few minutes to deliver a nerve block. For the doctor to reach the injection site, you'll need to lie on a flat surface.
The doctor will decide where to place the needle based on palpation and imaging results. They will apply an antibacterial solution to clean the area. They will inject the needle to a precise depth to get the medicine near the damaged nerve. Before giving the patient their medicine, the doctor might inject a contrast material to ensure the needle is in the right place.
Several shots may be necessary. This is determined by the number and size of your painful spots. Most likely, the doctor will tell you when the needle is in and the process is done.
After that, you'll be able to relax for about 15–30 minutes to allow the drug to take effect. Before you leave the doctor's office, the nurse will also ensure you don't have any unpleasant side effects.
How Does the Technique Work?
The medicine will be administered as near to the painful nerve as feasible. It will then "switch off" the sensory receptors within the affected nerve(s). The injection's effects are usually instant. The medication begins to ease the pain immediately. Nerve blocks, on the other hand, are just a temporary solution.
Depending on the medicine's composition, local anesthetics may persist for many hours or days. Because of their prolonged half-lives and delayed onset, steroids may give weeks or months of relief. Your symptoms may return to normal between the time the local anesthetic stops and the onset of the steroids' effects.
Furthermore, although most patients will have relief, some may need many nerve blocks before long-term relief. Some individuals may never feel better due to this and may need extra therapy to manage their problems.
What are the Effects?
As the physician inserts the needle, you should feel a "pinch." However, after the drug has taken effect, your discomfort should lessen. To reach the problematic nerve, the doctor occasionally puts the needle deeply. You may find this unpleasant, but if you do not move, the doctor will be unable to place the needle appropriately.
If you need medication near a major nerve or nerve cluster, your doctor will encourage you to notify them if you experience intense discomfort. Because the needle is too close to a major nerve, it must be withdrawn and repositioned. There's no need to be concerned since this doesn't happen very frequently. You will most likely experience some pain alleviation in the injected location. This may last a few weeks to several months, or even forever.
Who Will Explain the Results?
A radiologist or another pain management professional will provide the injection. The medical practitioner who administered the injection will assess your condition later on. They can also decide if additional medical treatment is necessary. There is no need for further interpretation of any imaging performed during the procedure.
Advantages of Nerve Blocks
• Reduces brief discomfort
• A short-term decrease in inflammation surrounding the painful nerve's site
• It could assist the doctor in determining the specific reason for pain
• Improved capacity to do everyday duties without the limitations that pain previously imposed
Disadvantages of Nerve Blocks
• Infection at the site of injection
• Loss of blood
• Inadvertent drug intake into the bloodstream
• Medication might spread to unexpected nerves or the spinal canal
What Limitations Do Nerve Blocks Impose?
The temporary alleviation from a nerve block injection may not last long. Although each patient is different, nerve blocks are often given in a series. They'll then be subsequently discontinued based on efficacy. Even if the medication is administered correctly, the patient may not experience any effects for some time or may need to repeat the session.
If a nerve block fails to alleviate your pain, your physician will likely suggest an alternative treatment. If you have any more questions, please contact Pain Doctors Brooklyn, New York.
Regenerative Medicine Procedures
When you cut yourself, your body repairs itself. However, that is not usually the case when you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis. Such conditions don’t resolve on their own. You’ll have to use medications and therapy to manage the pain.
When you live with chronic pain, it can be challenging to do your day-to-day activities. Luckily, there is something you can do to relieve the pain. Regenerative medicine targets the source of pain and leads to mobility. It is a new technology in medicine that helps restore your body to its well-being. The therapy is used to facilitate healing. Regenerative procedures are used to promote healing in patients with:
- Cartilage loss
- Ligament sprain
- Disc degeneration
- Chronic pain
- Tendon damage
- Muscle strain
Technological advancements in medicine have helped doctors to offer patients with better treatments. One such area is regenerative therapy. There are different techniques used to help your body regenerate. Here are regenerative procedures doctors use for pain management.
Stem cell treatments
Stem cell treatment is a common regenerative technique that uses a special type of cell for repairing injuries. The procedure utilizes the body’s natural healing process to heal injuries and rebuild damaged tissues. It is used for treating back pain and regenerating spinal disc tissues.
The special cells don’t have any specific purpose and can be removed to help treat pain. The stem cell is collected from your blood, fat or bone marrow. The cells are then placed on a centrifuge to find the right ones. Your doctor then injects the cells into the part that needs repair. If the stem cells are used to repair spinal discs, they are injected into the damaged disc directly. The cells develop into healthy disc cells and repair the injured spine.
Cartilage regeneration
Cartilage regeneration is an excellent treatment choice for people who suffer from musculoskeletal conditions. The therapy helps to heal the damaged cartilage. Cartilage doesn’t heal properly on its own since they don’t have blood vessels. The regeneration technique is suitable for people below 55 years.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
The platelet-rich plasma has two elements: the platelets and the plasma. Plasma is the liquid part of blood, while platelets are blood cell that promotes healing. Platelets contain factors that help with tissue regeneration.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is used to repair tendon injuries from various conditions, including hair loss and sports injuries. Your Pain Management Specialist draws blood and processes it to create a concentrated solution. The solution created will contain more plasma and platelets than regular blood. A centrifuge is used in making the concentrated solution. PRP can be applied during surgery or injected into the injured tendon. The PRP contains more platelets that stimulate healing and reduce pain.
Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is a regenerative therapy used for treating connective tissues and injured joints. It is commonly used for treating degenerative disc disease, whiplash, and arthritis. The treatment can be used on the hands, back, knees, shoulders, neck and hip.
Your doctor injects a water solution containing dextrose and saline into the injured part. The injections have a numbing agent and work by irritating the injury sites, which in turn triggers the healing process. Your body grows new connective fibres that repair the damaged tissue.
The procedure is designed to heal a damaged ligament. Muscles, tendons and ligaments work to make the body move naturally. When they become unstable, you’ll have spine or joint pain. Prolotherapy treats the entire part of the body or a specific joint. The goal of the procedure is to improve musculoskeletal pain.
Microgragmented adipose injections
Microfragmented adipose injections are used for people with joint pain, spinal conditions, rotator cuff tears, or arthritis. You can undergo surgery for such conditions. With a micro fragmented adipose injection, you’ll get a minimally invasive treatment with a faster recovery.
Viscous supplementation
Viscous supplementation is a procedure used to treat arthritis. Your doctor injects hyaluronic acid into your joints. The thick fluid helps reduce pain in the arthritic joint. Bones that make the joint have a cap of cartilage. The cartilage allows the bones to move smoothly. The fluid coating in the cartilage works as a lubricant for the joint. If you have osteoarthritis, the cartilage cap will break down. When that happens, your bones will scrape against one another. The Viscous supplementation will replace hyaluronic acid to reduce arthritis symptoms. Your doctor begins by injecting numbing medicine into your knee joint and drains any fluid that makes your joints swell. The next thing your doctor will do is inject the hyaluronic acid into the space on your joint. You’ll notice some pain relief after getting the complete course of treatment.
Cell therapy
The cell therapy treatments work in the same way as the PRP injections. The only difference is that your physician will get the healing cells from fat and bone marrow. The cells are concentrated using a special machine. The healing cells regenerate the tissues, which include ligaments, tendons, cartilage and bones.
Chronic pain does have to prevent you from living your life to the fullest. You can treat the pain without undergoing surgery. The above are some of the regenerative treatments that will relieve your pain. If you have chronic pain, you should seek help from Dr. Etelzon, a professional pain doctor in Brooklyn. The doctor will use suitable regenerative therapy to give you the best results. Get in touch with us today to get relief from the pain in New York.
Everything You Need to Know About Spine Facet Injections
Injections are a great way to relieve pain, especially if you have joint pain. They're also a great alternative to taking pills, which can have adverse side effects and addiction. These treatments let you get rid of your pain in the short term, help ease long-term inflammation, and encourage healing. Depending on the cause of your pain, you can use different pain injections: arnica for bruises, osteopathic for stress fractures, and trigger point injections for local areas of tension and tightness. Spine facet procedures are a newer pain relief method that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Here is a complete guide to spine facet injections.
1. What are Spine Facet Injections?
These injections are nerve blocks placed in your spine's facet joints. The facet joints are the bony areas where the vertebrae come together at the base of your neck. They are also known as the spina bifida joints or zygapophysial joints. Facet joints are a significant cause of neck pain and, in some cases, back pain. This procedure helps block pain by numbing the nerves that transmit pain to the brain. They contain a local anesthetic that blocks pain signals from reaching the brain and are administered in several different ways.
2. Which Doctors Do Facet Joint Injections?
Chiropractors or physical therapists do the majority of facet joint procedures. Certain orthopedic surgeons will inject the facet joints to relieve pain caused by a herniated disc, pinched nerves, or arthritis. The doctors are trained in the technique and are experts in their field of medicine. A board-certified physical medicine and rehab/interventional pain management physician is the best choice. They will decide if you have any medical conditions that may make it dangerous to have the procedure done. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease, the situation must be evaluated individually by your doctor.
3. How Do you Get a Facet Joint Injection?
A doctor will examine your spine and determine which joints need treatment for your specific condition and how many sites you need to be injected. After that, you'll be asked to lie down on an exam table with your head stabilized with pillows so that the doctor can administer the injection. The injection site is usually at the spine's midline between the neck vertebrae at one or two spots, depending on the treated condition. It can be done with a few different techniques. These include local anesthetics such as Lidocaine or Xylocaine, steroids such as prednisone, or hyaluronic acid. The procedure for a spine facet injection is relatively painless. Your doctor will insert the needle through your skin to the muscle or nerves, causing pain. Your doctor will inject the numbing agent and the medication to help you recover from your pain. A spine facet injection takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete. You may not have any pain after the procedure, but you may feel discomfort in the injected area. You should also not be able to feel the needle after the procedure.
4. How Do I Prepare
It would be best if you did not eat or drink anything after noon the day before your spine facet injection. You should also not take any over-the-counter medications on the day of your injection. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, which can make you feel drowsy and affect your ability to relax during the procedure. Before your procedure, you should sit in a comfortable position and avoid any strenuous activity. You should also wear loose clothing to help keep you comfortable. The staff at the office will help you get undressed if needed so that you can be comfortable during the procedure.
5. Why Should I Get a Spine Facet Injection?
They are a great way to treat pain and inflammation in the spine. If you suffer from chronic pain, you should consider this procedure. Spine facet injections are great for relieving pain in the back, hips, shoulders, neck, and knees. If you have arthritis or osteoarthritis, this treatment may help reduce inflammation and pain in your joints. The procedure is simple and can be done at home with minimal discomfort. Some people who get spine facet treatments experience instant relief from their pain and reduced inflammation.
6. What To do After Your Treatment
The procedure is done with a local anesthetic. After the injection, you will be asked to lay on your back for a few minutes before getting up and moving around. You can go back to sleeping as soon as possible afterward. It is best to take it easy for the rest of the day and not do strenuous activities. The next day, you will likely have some numbness in the area. This is normal and should go away in a few days. You can also repeat the procedure if you are not fully satisfied with the results.
7. How Long Does It Take To Recover
It depends on the type of injection you have. The injection is administered with a local anesthetic or steroids usually takes about ten days to heal. A Hyaluronic acid injection takes three to four weeks to heal. If you have one or two sites injected with steroids, it will likely be a few days before you feel any relief from the pain. But once the treatment is over, you should feel better in about a week. If multiple sites were injected, your pain level might take several months to return to normal.
Pain medication and surgery are not the only methods of treating back pain. Facet joint injections can be an effective way to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. If you are considering this treatment, do plenty of research before getting the procedure. Dr. Ilana Etelzon is a board-certified pain management doctor who provides facet joint injections and other pain management procedures in Brooklyn, New York City. If you are looking for an experienced doctor, consider visiting her.