According to the CDC, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. suffer from chronic pain. When it comes to treating chronic pain, the pain management procedure must be tailored to the individual’s symptoms.

 

Let’s take a look at the most common pain management procedures and what to expect with each.

4 Common Pain Management Treatments

Epidural Steroid Injections

What it is: This procedure option is used to treat chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, back, and legs. This treatment involves using an X-ray to help guide the injection of anti-inflammatory pain medication into the area experiencing pain.

 

What to expect: Epidural steroid injections are known for being effective, low risk, and minimally invasive. They usually take around 5 minutes and the patient can be put under local anesthesia or sedation.

Nerve Blocks

What it is: This procedure can help prevent or manage pain occurring in multiple areas of the body, when the source of pain is inflamed spinal nerve(s). The doctor will inject medicine that blocks pain from specific nerves, depending on where the pain is located.

 

What to expect: Nerve blocks usually take around 30 minutes and local anesthesia is often used during the procedure.

Facet Joint Injections

What it is: This procedure involves injecting medicine into the small joints of the spine. Pain that originates in these joints often manifests itself in the head, neck, and back.

 

What to expect: Like epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections are usually low risk and minimally invasive. They also take roughly 5 minutes, and the patient is usually under local anesthesia or sedation.

Radiofrequency Ablations

What it is: This procedure is used to treat pain that is caused by spinal injury or deterioration, such as degenerative arthritis. It involves using thermal energy to temporarily disable tiny nerve endings.

 

What to expect: Radiofrequency nerve ablations usually take around 20 minutes and the patient can be put under local anesthesia or sedation.

Schedule An Appointment in Jacksonville, NC

If you’re looking for pain relief, you’re in luck. The doctors at Carolinas Center of Surgery are experts in diagnosing and treating pain. They’ll customize a pain treatment plan for your individual needs. Learn more about our pain management in Jacksonville, NC, and book an appointment today.