Introduction Interventional pain physicians are specialized doctors who focus on the treatment of chronic pain. These physicians undergo extensive training to learn interventional techniques such as nerve blocks, epidural steroid injections, and radiofrequency ablation. They also possess in-depth knowledge of non-opioid medications that can effectively manage milder forms of chronic pain. Dr Brian Blick MD, is one such expert in the field who strives to provide comprehensive pain management solutions to his patients.
Appropriate Use of Opioids Interventional pain physicians, like Dr Brian Blick, MD, have access to opioids and may utilize them in a manner appropriate for the patient’s needs. However, opioids are considered a last resort and should only be used for short-term pain relief. It is crucial to recognize that opioids should not be the sole treatment for chronic pain due to the risks of dependence and adverse side effects such as nausea, constipation, vomiting, and respiratory depression. Instead, interventional pain physicians acknowledge the benefits of alternative therapies like physical therapy or massage therapy, which do not carry these risks.
Expertise in Treating Chronic Pain Interventional pain physicians, including Dr Brian Blick, MD, possess extensive training in the treatment of chronic pain. They are well-versed in managing various types of chronic pain, such as back and neck problems, arthritis, and fibromyalgia. These physicians employ a wide range of treatment options to help patients effectively manage their chronic pain, without relying solely on opioid medications. If you have been suffering from persistent or severe chronic pain without relief, considering interventional therapy as an alternative to surgery or medication management alone may be beneficial.
Interventional Pain Procedures There are several types of interventional pain procedures that can help alleviate chronic pain. One such procedure is radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat to destroy nerve endings, reducing inflammation and pain sensation. This method is often employed for patients experiencing back pain or neck pain who have not found relief through other treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections.
Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) is another technique used by interventional pain physicians. It involves delivering an electric current through wires placed near nerves in areas affected by chronic muscle spasm or injury. This stimulation helps relax muscles, reducing tension and pressure on surrounding nerves, resulting in decreased discomfort.
Highly Trained Physicians Interventional pain physicians, such as Dr Brian Blick MD, are highly trained professionals equipped to manage chronic pain through various means beyond opioids. If you are currently taking opioid medication but still experiencing moderate to severe levels of chronic pain, an interventional pain physician can offer non-opioid alternatives that may be more effective in reducing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
These alternatives include spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which uses electrical impulses from a device implanted near the spinal cord to block pain signals from reaching the brain. Percutaneous epidural steroid injections (PESI) deliver precise amounts of steroids to specific areas surrounding inflamed and irritated nerves. Radiofrequency ablation therapy utilizes heat generated by radio waves or microwaves to provide relief when applied through a catheter inserted into joints or muscles via small incisions.
Conclusion Interventional pain physicians, like Dr Brian Blick, MD, play a crucial role in pain management by offering a wide array of treatments beyond opioids. Their expertise and training allow them to address chronic pain effectively, tailoring treatment plans to suit each patient’s unique needs. By employing interventional techniques, such as nerve blocks and radiofrequency ablation, these physicians aim to alleviate pain, enhance patients’ quality of life, and reduce reliance on opioids.