Interventional Procedures
Innovative treatments for pain management from our NYC doctors
When pain becomes difficult to manage through medications or physical therapy alone, interventional procedures offer a more targeted approach to relief. These minimally invasive techniques can provide long-lasting results, helping you avoid more invasive surgeries. At IMC Bone Doc, our NYC board-certified doctors know what interventional procedures are designed to alleviate pain at its source, getting you back to a life with less discomfort and more mobility.
What are interventional procedures?
Interventional procedures refer to pain management treatments that are somewhat invasive but not as invasive as surgery. These techniques target specific areas of pain. Instead of relying solely on oral medications that affect the entire body, these treatments are designed to deliver relief directly to the source of pain. They’re often used for patients dealing with chronic conditions like back pain, joint pain, or nerve-related discomfort. Interventional procedures have many benefits, including:
- Targeted pain relief: Directly addressing the root cause of your pain.
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions, shorter recovery times, and less risk than traditional surgery.
- Long-lasting effects: Many procedures provide extended relief, reducing the need for ongoing medication.
Common types of interventional procedures used for pain management
Interventional procedures play a vital role in pain management, offering targeted relief for various conditions and helping patients regain their quality of life. These procedures can provide significant relief when traditional treatments fall short. They include:
Epidural steroid injections
These are a popular interventional procedure primarily used to manage back pain stemming from inflammation. By delivering an anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord, these injections target the source of pain, helping to decrease swelling and discomfort in the affected nerves.
Epidural steroid injections are frequently administered for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica, where nerve compression leads to severe pain. The steroids work by reducing inflammation in the targeted area, providing relief that can last for several weeks or even months. During the procedure, a small needle is carefully inserted into the epidural space under imaging guidance, ensuring the precise placement of the medication. Many patients experience significant pain reduction, allowing them to also participate in physical therapy and other treatments that support their long-term recovery.
Nerve block injections
Nerve block injections offer a targeted approach to managing pain by interrupting the pain signals from specific nerves or groups of nerves. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients dealing with nerve pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatment options.
Commonly used for conditions such as arthritis, migraines, or post-surgical pain associated with nerve damage or irritation, nerve block injections involve administering a local anesthetic, often combined with a steroid, near the affected nerve. This effectively disrupts the pain signals that travel to the brain, providing targeted relief. Many patients experience immediate pain relief that can last for weeks, and in some cases, multiple treatments can lead to successful long-term pain management.
In addition to epidural steroid and nerve block injections, several other interventional procedures may be recommended depending on your specific condition, including:
- Facet joint injections: These are used to treat pain in the small joints of the spine, often caused by arthritis or injury. Like other injections, a combination of anesthetic and steroid is delivered directly to the painful joint to reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): This technique uses heat to "deactivate” specific nerves, preventing them from sending pain signals to the brain. It’s a longer-lasting option that can provide relief for six months or more, making it a good option for chronic pain sufferers.
- Trigger point injections: Trigger points are tight bands of muscle that can cause pain or discomfort when touched. In this procedure, an anesthetic is injected into the trigger point to relax the muscle and relieve pain. It’s commonly used for conditions like myofascial pain syndrome or tension headaches.
How to prepare for an interventional procedure
Preparing for an interventional procedure is usually straightforward, but there are a few key steps to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience:
- Medication review: Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some may need to be paused before the procedure (especially blood thinners).
- Fasting: Depending on the procedure, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand.
- Post-procedure care: Plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you may experience some temporary numbness or drowsiness from the anesthetic.
A board-certified member of our team will walk you through the entire process, answering any questions you have and ensuring you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Is an interventional procedure right for you?
Interventional procedures are typically recommended for patients who haven’t found sufficient relief from more conservative treatments. These procedures offer an excellent middle ground between medication and surgery, providing longer-lasting results with minimal recovery time. At IMC Bone Doc, we will work with you to determine the best approach to managing your pain and getting you back to enjoying your daily life. Contact us today to learn more about how these procedures could be the solution to managing your pain.
