If you suffer from back pain, arthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, or another painful condition, a pain clinic may be a good option for you. These pain management centers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of pain. Pain management doctors often use a combination of different treatments when prescribing their patients an individualized treatment plan. Let’s take a look at the different types of treatment and therapy options that these pain clinics offer.
Pain clinics may offer a mix of conventional and alternative treatment options. Patients often respond well to a blend of both approaches. Below are lists of conventional and alternative treatment methods. These lists are not all-encompassing, but highlight some of the more common treatments.
Radiofrequency Ablation
This process involves using radio waves to produce an electrical current. Pain management doctors use this current to direct heat to a small area of nerve tissue. This interrupts the ability of nerves to pass pain signals to the brain. Results can last 6-12 months. Some patients even report pain relief for 1-2 years.
Trigger Point Injections
This procedure is often used on patients with muscle pain. These painful muscles can be treated by targeting the trigger points or unrelaxed knots of muscle. This procedure involves a specialist inserting a small needle into a trigger point, and injecting a local anesthetic, a corticosteroid, or saline.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps improve mobility and function and may help relieve pain. Physical therapy often includes some type of target exercise, such weights, stretching, and walking.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS
This process provides pain relief through low-voltage electrical currents. The current travels through the nerve fibers and can help provide relief from pain.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy may be effective for treating muscle pain and tension. Massage therapy works by rubbing the muscles to reduce tension, increase blood flow, and increase relaxation.
Drug Therapy
Depending on a patient’s health and the cause and severity of the pain, a pain management doctor may prescribe pain medications. Pain medications work best when used with other forms of treatment.
Bioelectric Therapy
This pain management procedure uses bioelectric currents to interrupt pain signals and prompt the body to release endorphins. Adhesive electrodes are placed on the skin of the treatment area and are used to provide the current.
Some popular alternative options that pain clinics may suggest for a treatment plan include acupuncture, biofeedback, hypnotherapy, chiropractic care, aromatherapy, and relaxation therapy. Many patients respond well to a mix of conventional and alternative treatment methods.
If you are looking for a Las Vegas pain clinic, contact Apex Medical Center. We specialize in pain management. Our highly-trained and experienced pain management doctors provide care to men and women of all ages at locations in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada.
