By Andrew Linn, MD
Living with chronic pain can feel like an endless journey, filled with discomfort and frustration. Many patients who come to our interventional pain management clinic have already tried various treatments—medications, physical therapy, even surgery—but have found little relief. Our goal is to help them regain control over their lives through minimally invasive, targeted treatments. In this post, we will share three fictionalized yet realistic patient experiences that highlight the impact interventional pain management can have on a person's quality of life.
James – Finding Hope After Failed Back Surgery
Background:
James, a 46-year-old construction worker, had been suffering from lower back pain for over six years. His pain began after a lifting injury on the job, which gradually worsened until he could no longer work. After trying physical therapy and medications, James underwent back surgery two years ago, but his pain persisted. In fact, it seemed to have worsened after the surgery—a condition known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS).
"I thought the surgery would be the answer. I was hopeful, but it didn’t work. My pain actually got worse, and it felt like no one could help me." – James
By the time James arrived at our clinic, he was in constant pain, unable to sit or stand for more than 15 minutes at a time. His work life had been impacted significantly, and he was considering permanent disability.
The Interventional Approach:
After an initial consultation, we performed a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging and diagnostic tests, to assess the root cause of James’s pain. It was clear that the scar tissue from the surgery had caused nerve impingement, contributing to his ongoing discomfort. We recommended a spinal cord stimulator trial, a treatment designed to block pain signals before they reach the brain.
The spinal cord stimulator works by delivering mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, interrupting the pain signal pathway. Before proceeding with the permanent implant, patients like James undergo a trial period to assess the efficacy of the treatment.
The Outcome:
James’s trial was a success. Within a few days of the spinal cord stimulator being in place, he reported a 70% reduction in his pain levels. He was able to sit, stand, and move around without the constant agony that had plagued him for years.
"It’s like a light switch was flipped. I still have some pain, but it’s so much more manageable. I can do things I haven’t been able to do in years." – James
James later opted for the permanent spinal cord stimulator implant and has since returned to part-time work. While he still needs to be mindful of his activity levels, the reduction in pain has allowed him to regain a sense of normalcy and purpose.
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Maria – Overcoming Debilitating Migraines with Occipital Nerve Blocks
Background:
Maria, a 34-year-old school teacher, had been battling chronic migraines for over a decade. Her migraines started in her early twenties, but over the last few years, they had become more frequent and intense. At one point, Maria was experiencing migraines 15 days per month, making it nearly impossible for her to maintain her work schedule and personal life.
"I was living in fear of my next migraine. Every time one hit, it was like my entire life came to a stop.” – Maria
She had tried several medications, including triptans, beta-blockers, and antidepressants, but the results were inconsistent, and the side effects often made her feel worse. Maria’s neurologist suggested she try interventional pain management as a last resort.
The Interventional Approach:
During Maria’s initial consultation, we discussed her migraine patterns, triggers, and prior treatments. After a detailed examination, we recommended occipital nerve blocks, which target the nerves at the base of the skull that can contribute to migraines. These blocks involve injecting a local anesthetic and a small amount of steroid around the occipital nerves to reduce inflammation and prevent the onset of migraines.
The procedure is minimally invasive and takes less than 10 minutes. After the first injection, we would monitor Maria’s response to determine if a series of injections could provide longer-lasting relief.
The Outcome:
After her first occipital nerve block, Maria experienced significant relief. Her migraines decreased in frequency from 15 days per month to just four days, and the severity of the remaining migraines was dramatically reduced.
Over the next several months, Maria received a total of three occipital nerve blocks, spaced several weeks apart. By the end of her treatment series, her migraines had decreased to just one or two per month, and she was able to manage them effectively with over-the-counter medications.
Thanks to the success of her treatment, Maria has been able to reclaim her life. She now enjoys regular outdoor activities and has resumed her demanding work schedule without the looming fear of migraines.
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John – Battling Chronic Knee Pain with Genicular Nerve Ablation
Background:
John, a 62-year-old retired electrician, had been struggling with chronic knee pain for the past five years due to osteoarthritis. He had tried everything—physical therapy, cortisone injections, oral medications—but the pain persisted. Walking short distances became painful, and activities he once enjoyed, like gardening and playing with his grandchildren, became nearly impossible.
"I felt like I was missing out on life. Every step hurt, and I started to lose hope that anything could help.” – John
After discussing knee replacement surgery with his orthopedic surgeon, John was reluctant to undergo such a major procedure, especially given his age and other health concerns. That’s when he was referred to our clinic for a less invasive option.
The Interventional Approach:
After our initial consultation with John, we scheduled a diagnostic nerve block to identify the nerves responsible for his knee pain. The genicular nerves, which transmit pain signals from the knee to the brain, were the culprits. Based on the results of the nerve block, we recommended genicular nerve ablation, a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to “burn” and deactivate these nerves, preventing them from sending pain signals.
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and involves inserting a needle into the area around the genicular nerves. Radiofrequency energy is then applied to heat the nerve tissue, providing long-lasting pain relief without the need for invasive surgery.
The Outcome:
John experienced immediate pain relief after the procedure. Within two weeks, he reported an 80% reduction in knee pain and was able to walk without limping. Over the next several months, John’s improvement continued, allowing him to return to many of the activities he once enjoyed.
“I can’t believe how much better I feel. I’m back to doing the things I love—spending time with my grandkids, walking in the park—and I don’t feel like pain is controlling my life anymore."– John
While genicular nerve ablation is not a cure for osteoarthritis, it has given John a new lease on life by dramatically reducing his pain and improving his mobility. He now feels empowered to manage his condition without the need for more aggressive interventions like surgery.
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Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Interventional Pain Management
These three patient stories illustrate the transformative power of interventional pain management. Whether it’s spinal cord stimulation for chronic back pain, nerve blocks for migraines, or nerve ablation for arthritis, these treatments offer hope to individuals who have exhausted traditional options.
At our interventional pain management clinic, we believe that every patient’s journey is unique, and we take the time to develop personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of their pain. Our goal is not just to alleviate symptoms but to help patients regain control over their lives.
If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic pain, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you on your journey toward a pain-free life.
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*Andrew Linn, MD, is a board-certified interventional pain specialist in Sacramento with over 15 years of experience. He is dedicated to helping patients find relief from chronic pain through minimally invasive procedures tailored to their individual needs.*
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