Pain Management Specialists Invasive techniques in pain management involve invasion of instruments and devices into the body. However, pain management should be distinguished from surgery, which involves a greater degree of surgical insult and permanent alteration of tissue than other invasive techniques. A multitude of invasive therapies have been used to treat neck and back pain. Some of the most popular include: Injections - direct delivery of steroids or anesthetic to nerve, joint or epidural space. Injections into the facet, peripheral nerve, "trigger point" and other locations are also known as "blocks". These may provide relief of pain (often temporary) and can be used to confirm diagnosis. Epidural injections provide temporary relief for severe back pain. Prolotherapy - injection of solution to stimulate blood circulation and ligament repair at affected site. The effectiveness of this technique is not known. Surgically implanted electrotherapy devices - implantable spinal cord stimulators (SCS) and implantable peripheral nerve stimulators. Clinical data offers inconclusive findings on the effectiveness of SCS. Implantable opioid infusion pumps - surgically implanted pumps that deliver opioid agents directly to affected nerve. The appropriateness and effectiveness of these devices for treating chronic back pain is controversial. Radiofrequency radioablation - deadening of painful nerve via heat produced by a specialized device. The efficacy of this treatment is mixed. Health professionals in many fields have completed specialized training in pain management. Currently, there is no single field of medicine or health care that represents the preferred approach to pain management. Indeed, the premise of pain management is that a highly multidisciplinary approach is essential. Pain management specialists are most commonly found in the following disciplines: Anesthesiology Physiatry (also called Physical medicine and rehabilitation) Interventional radiology Neurology Physical therapy Osteopathy Primary care medicine Specialists in psychology, psychiatry, behavioral science and other areas may also play an important role in a comprehensive pain management program. Several respected professional societies offer certifications, training and other credentialing in pain management or pain medicine. Some of these organizations include: American Academy of Pain Management, American Academy of Pain Medicine, American Board of Pain Medicine, and the American Pain Society. Most pain management specialists are seen by referral from a physician. If you feel it is appropriate, consult your physician for information about a pain management program. Pain management specialists are most often called upon to treat severe back pain, challenging chronic pain, and patients with failed back surgery syndrome. Go to Top

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