At Center for Spine and Orthopedics, we offer a variety of diagnostic and non-operative pain management options, including ultrasound-guided injections, generative medicine, therapeutic neural blockade and acupuncture.
Comprehensive Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation — For Managing Chronic Pain
These procedures mentioned above may be prescribed in combination or alone. Our physicians also work in partnership with local physical therapists and other professionals to offer comprehensive pain management treatment. It is our mission at Center for Spine and Orthopedics to make sure our patients are as comfortable as possible during and after procedures.
Diagnosing & Managing Chronic Pain — Injections, Electrodiagnosis & Radiofrequency Ablation
- Spinal Injections– While spinal injections can be used to diagnose the source of back, leg, neck or arm pain, they are most often performed as part of a comprehensive treatment program, which usually includes an exercise program to improve or maintain spinal mobility and stability. Spinal injections are performed under x-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) to confirm correct medication placement and improve safety.
- The Process of Electrodiagnostic Testing– The nerves and muscles in your body create electrical signals that deliver messages to and from your brain. Sensory nerves deliver information about your surroundings to the brain. Motor nerves deliver signals from the brain to activate your muscles. If you have pain, weakness or numbness in your back, neck or hands, measuring the speed and degree of electrical activity in your muscles and nerves can help your doctor make a proper diagnosis. This process is called electrodiagnostic testing. Two of the most commonly used tests are Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve conduction studies (NCS).
- Radiofrequency: A Minimally Invasive Procedure – Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that can provide lasting relief to those suffering from facet joint pain, a well-recognized source of persistent back pain. It is usually performed with a local anesthetic and mild sedation. As with many spinal injections, radio frequency ablation is best performed under fluoroscopy (live x-ray), which our physiatrist uses to guide him in properly targeting and placing the needle. During the procedure, our physiatrist numbs the targeted nerves to minimize pain uses radiofrequency waves to heat the tip of the needle, which he then uses to create a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals.
