Back pain conditions can affect the vertebrae, joints, discs, and surrounding nerves, often causing pain that lingers for months. These problems range from muscle strain and herniated discs to spinal arthritis and nerve compression. When back pain becomes chronic, meaning it lasts longer than 12 weeks, standard treatments like rest and medication may no longer provide enough relief. Innovative procedures offer targeted approaches that address the source of pain directly, and they may help patients manage symptoms and return to daily activities. Here’s information on innovative procedures to treat back pain with a pain specialist:
Nerve Blocks
When nerve-related issues cause back pain, a pain specialist may discuss nerve blocks to manage discomfort. A nerve block is a procedure in which a physician injects medication near a specific nerve or group of nerves to interrupt pain signals. Doctors recommend nerve blocks when pain hasn’t responded to conservative care or when they need to identify the precise source of discomfort. The injection typically contains a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid to reduce inflammation.
Because a nerve block can also serve as a diagnostic tool, physicians use it to plan longer-term treatment. A medial branch block targets the small nerves that supply sensation to the facet joints in the spine. This type of block can help determine whether these joints are the source of pain or not. Conditions that may benefit from nerve blocks or medial branch blocks include:
- Facet Joint Arthritis
- Spinal Stenosis
- Nerve Irritation (From Degenerative Changes)
Injection Options
For some conditions, injections deliver medication to a specific area of the spine. Different injection types address different structures, so the appropriate choice depends on the location and cause of the pain. One common treatment for pain is facet injections, where physicians use imaging guidance to place the needle accurately. Facet injections place medication directly into or around a facet joint, the small joint that connects each vertebra to the one above and below it. These joints can become inflamed from arthritis or wear, so the injection usually combines a local anesthetic with a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
Epidural steroid injections deliver corticosteroid medication into the epidural space, the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. This procedure is often used for pain caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve root irritation. The steroid reduces inflammation around the affected nerves. Depending on the response, a physician may recommend a series of injections spaced over several weeks.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated by radio waves to interrupt nerve signals from a specific area of the spine. During the procedure, a physician inserts a thin needle near the targeted nerve and uses imaging to confirm its position. A small electrical current heats the tip of the needle, which creates a lesion on the nerve and prevents it from transmitting pain signals. This procedure is often recommended after a diagnostic nerve block confirms which nerves cause the pain. The effects can last several months to a year, and the procedure may be repeated if pain returns.
Reduce Back Pain Over Time
When back pain is interrupting your daily activities, you may benefit from visiting a pain management specialist. Managing chronic back pain often requires a combination of treatments and ongoing care. A pain management specialist can evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and recommend procedures suited to your specific needs. To find a specialist near you, ask your primary care physician for a referral or contact your health insurance provider for a list of in-network providers. A thorough evaluation helps your care team develop a plan that effectively addresses your pain.
