Interventional Pain Management: When Is It Time to Consider Surgery?
Chronic pain can severely affect a person’s quality of life, but when is it time to consider surgery? For many, interventional pain management offers a range of treatments that can effectively control pain without the need for surgery. However, there are situations where surgery becomes the most viable option.
This post will explore the types of interventional pain treatments available and provide guidance on when surgery may be necessary.
Understanding Interventional Pain Management
Interventional pain management focuses on minimally invasive procedures to treat pain. These treatments are often used when medications and physical therapy have not provided adequate relief. Common procedures include epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. These treatments target the source of pain directly, reducing inflammation or interrupting nerve signals.
When is Surgery Recommended?
While interventional pain management can be effective, some conditions may eventually require surgical intervention. These include:
• Severe spinal stenosis: When nerve compression becomes severe, causing numbness or loss of motor control.
• Herniated discs: When non-surgical treatments fail to relieve nerve pressure caused by a herniated disc.
• Degenerative disc disease: In cases where the degeneration is advanced, spinal fusion may be necessary.
The Risks and Benefits of Surgery
Surgery should always be considered a last resort due to the risks involved, such as infection, long recovery times, and the potential for incomplete pain relief. However, for patients with conditions like spinal deformities or severe nerve impingement, surgery can provide long-term relief and improved functionality.
Deciding whether to undergo surgery for chronic pain is a complex decision that should be made with the guidance of a pain management specialist. Interventional treatments can delay or even avoid the need for surgery, but in some cases, surgery is the best option for long-term relief. Contact my office for a confidential consultation.