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What types of pain problems are treated?
The more commonly treated painful disorders include: low back pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis pain, neck pain, pain from herniated or protruding disks, pain from spinal compression fractures, shingles, rib pain (including post-surgical), abdominal wall pain, and nerve entrapment pain.
Who sees the patients?
The Medical Pain Center is staffed by highly trained professionals proficient in diagnosing and treating various pain problems. A physician trained in medical pain management will see each patient. He will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. The doctor will then explain your diagnosis, outline a plan of treatment and answer your questions. Our helpful staff will work closely with your primary or referring physician.
What types of treatment will be used?
Patients suffering from pain caused by nerve irritation, such as from a disk herniation or protrusion, may enjoy improvement if a small quantity of an anti-inflammatory medication (cortisone) is injected into the area of inflammation.
Why are steroid (cortisone) injections used in treating pain problems?
Generally, injections are performed to heal a problem, and will not "cover it up". Anti-inflammatory medications shrink swelling and reduce inflammation. This may result in pain and symptom relief. Cortisone is a form of steroid medication which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Will I receive an injection at the time of my first office visit?
The first office visit is usually for evaluation / consulation. You likely will not receive an injection in the office at the time of your first visit. Nearly all procedures require x-ray guidance in an outpatient setting. Also, your insurance company may require that some spinal injections be done under x-ray guidance in an outpatient facility.
Some injections may be scheduled later the same day at a nearby facility. Unfortunately, some insurance plans and Medicare will not allow an injection to be performed on the same day as the office visit / evaluation.
How many visits will I need?
The number of visits varies with each individual. Many pain problems may be successfully treated in one or two visits. More complex problems may require a series of treatments over several weeks or ongoing treatment.
Do I need to fast (skip meals) before an injection?
No, you do not have to fast before your visit to the office. You may eat your meals before your appointment as usual.
Do I need to bring someone to drive me home after an injection?
No, you should be capable of driving after treatment. However, if you wish, family members are always welcome to attend your initial evaluation and subsequent treatment visits.
Can I go back to work after an injection?
We generally advise patients to "take it easy" following any procedure. If you have a strenuous job (construction, lifting, bending, squatting) it would be best if you did not return to work the day of the procedure. You should be able to return to work the next day.
If your job is sedentary, you may be able to return to work after the procedure.
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