Gold Standard for Treating Chronic Pain: Tips by The Pain Medicine Experts

When it comes to pain management, there are a variety of options available to patients. For some, over-the-counter medication may provide relief, while others may require prescription-strength medication. In some cases, however, even the strongest medications may not be enough to provide relief.

For these patients, intrathecal opioid trials may be an option. Intrathecal opioid trials involve the delivery of medication directly to the spinal cord. This allows for a high concentration of medication to be delivered by the anesthesiologists like Dr Brian Blick to the area of pain, providing more effective relief.

How does the process work:
The process begins with a screening test, which is used to determine whether or not the patient is a candidate for intrathecal therapy.
If the screening test is positive, the patient will then undergo a trial procedure. During this procedure, a small amount of medication is delivered to the spinal cord to see if it is effective in relieving pain.
If the trial is successful, the patient will then undergo a full implantation procedure. Intrathecal opioid trials have been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic pain and can provide patients with much-needed relief.

Tips by the pain medicine experts:

There are a few important things to keep in mind when undergoing an intrathecal opioid trial.
First, it is important to have realistic expectations. These trials are not a cure-all, and they may not provide complete relief from pain. Instead, they are meant to help identify the best course of treatment.
Second, be sure to work with a pain medicine expert who is experienced in performing these trials. This will help ensure that the trial is conducted properly and that you receive the most accurate information possible.
Finally, remember that intrathecal opioid trials are just one tool in the fight against chronic pain. They should be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, such as physical therapy and medication management.

Endnote:
Intrathecal opioid trials are considered the gold standard for diagnosing and treating chronic pain conditions that are unresponsive to more conservative measures. When performed correctly, these trials can provide invaluable information about a patient’s condition and help guide treatment decisions.