Chronic pain can be a debilitating experience, leaving many feeling hopeless and discouraged in their search for relief. We often turn to traditional painkillers such as opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but they may not be effective, and their long-term potential side effects, including drowsiness, addiction risk, and gastrointestinal issues, can make them less than ideal solutions. Then there are other neuropathic medication classes that have their own side effects and drug interactions. 

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All medical procedures carry some risks, and surgical and medication risks are no exception. Each of us is unique, and what may be right for one might not apply to another. That’s why it’s crucial to discuss individual risk factors and a plan with your managing clinician before deciding whether to stop or continue your current medication for a procedure. This helps minimize the risks of any potential complications and ensures that you receive the optimum care based on your specific needs.

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Lupus is a complex autoimmune disorder that can range from mild to life-threatening. While it has been around for centuries, the diagnosis and treatment can get overlooked by both patients and clinicians alike. Symptoms of lupus can range in severity and include fever, joint pain, fatigue, rashes, hair loss, mouth ulcers, and more. If left undetected and thus untreated, it can lead to organ damage and possible death. It’s important to recognize the potential signs of this disease so you can get an accurate diagnosis quickly if needed.

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If you suffer from chronic headaches, you know how debilitating they can be. You may have tried different treatments to find relief. These include psychological approaches, relaxation, and medications but you may not have tried one of the minimally invasive nerve blocks that might be helpful. A  commonly performed and relatively safe later approach is known as an occipital nerve block. Read on to learn more about how this treatment works and whether it could be right for you.

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The spine is a complex and intricate structure that helps us stand upright, move and bend, throughout our daily lives. In addition, the spinal nerves originating from the spinal cord traverse the spine to reach the upper and lower extremities and the trunk.  Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is one of the most common causes of pain in the spine that can become debilitating if left untreated. To help understand DDD, here is the information that may be useful to you.

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Chronic pain is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including injuries, arthritis, cancer, and nerve damage. Treatment options often focus on relieving the symptoms and may not always address the underlying causes. This is where Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) and other options of neuromodulation come in.

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It is no secret that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise. In the United States alone, it is estimated that over 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a number that is expected to more than triple by the year 2050. 

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Acetaminophen is a very commonly used pain reliever and fever reducer. It is available over the counter, or by prescription, either by itself or in combination with other medications. Most of us are aware of Tylenol, a commonly used brand of acetaminophen in the United States.  It works by reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are hormones that play a role in pain and inflammation. In otherwise healthy people, acetaminophen is generally safe when taken as directed. The most common side effect of acetaminophen is mild stomach pain. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and skin rash. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. 

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If you suffer from upper or lower back pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, or any other form of chronic pain, you know how disruptive it can be. Chronic pain can stop you from doing everyday tasks such as going to work, doing household chores, exercising, or enjoying your favorite sport. It can even keep you from getting the sleep you need. That is why it is so important to come up with a comprehensive management plan. In many situations, this may include both a physical therapy referral and a home exercise plan. 

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