Common Pain Relief Injections

Pain relief injections are a common, outpatient option for many people who suffer from daily occurrences of pain. These injections are considered safe and effective, partially due to the technology used—fluoroscopy. This x-ray imaging allows the doctor to use contrast dye to guide the injection to a precise spot. These injections work by blocking pain signals that are sent to your brain and usually contain an anti-inflammatory steroid and anesthetic.

Facet Injections

Your facet joints help with movement of your spine. By injecting the facet joints, you can help relieve back and neck pain. In many cases, facet joint injections are used as a diagnostic tool. By injecting the pain relief medication, the doctor can confirm the area that is responsible for your pain. If you have significant relief from these injections, they may be used on a more long term basis.

Epidural Injections

This type of injection involves an injection into the epidural space, which is located at the base of your spine. This can help to relieve pain in your back, legs, neck, and arms, depending on the condition causing your pain.

Lumbar Sympathetic Blocks

This type of injection is often used for leg pain, often associated with complex regional pain syndrome. The injection works like other nerve blocks and prevents pain signals from traveling to your brain.

Stellate Ganglion Blocks

This type of nerve block is often used to treat pain in the arm or hand, or diagnose pain in the same area. It has also been used to improve blood flow in patients who have poor circulation due to pain conditions

Celiac Plexus Blocks

Celiac plexus blocks are often used for patients with chronic abdominal pain or certain types of cancer pain. This is another type of injection that is often used as a diagnostic tool in order to determine if a more long term injection would be effective.

Soreness at the injection site is a common side effect of pain relief injections. It is common to experience immediate pain relief due to the anesthetic in the injection. Once the anesthetic wears off, more relief sets in after a couple of days.

Your pain management doctor can help you determine if a type of pain relief injection would work for your health situation.

Posted on behalf of Allied Pain & Spine Institute