Interventional pain management doctors in Washington DC

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Interventional pain management procedure

System
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Subdivisions
Significant diseases
Significant tests
Specialist
Glossary

Interventional pain management doctors in Washington, D.C. are specialized physicians who focus on diagnosing and treating chronic pain through minimally invasive techniques. These doctors are trained in various medical disciplines, including anesthesiology, neurology, and physical medicine and rehabilitation. They employ a range of procedures to alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions.

Overview

Interventional pain management is a subspecialty of pain medicine that uses techniques such as nerve blocks, epidural injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation to treat pain. These procedures are often performed under fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance to ensure precision and safety.

In Washington, D.C., interventional pain management doctors work in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized pain management centers. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Common Procedures

Interventional pain management doctors in Washington, D.C. perform a variety of procedures, including:

• Epidural Steroid Injections: Used to relieve pain caused by inflammation of spinal nerves.
• Facet Joint Injections: Target the small joints in the spine to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat to disrupt nerve function and reduce pain signals.
• Spinal Cord Stimulation: Involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord to mask pain signals.
• Nerve Blocks: Injections that block pain signals from specific nerves.

Training and Certification

Interventional pain management doctors typically complete a residency in a related field such as anesthesiology or neurology, followed by a fellowship in pain management. They may be board-certified by organizations such as the American Board of Anesthesiology or the American Board of Pain Medicine.

Challenges and Considerations

Managing chronic pain is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Interventional pain management doctors must consider the potential risks and benefits of each procedure, as well as the patient's overall health and treatment goals. They also address issues related to opioid use and work to provide effective pain relief while minimizing the risk of addiction.

Also see

• Pain management
• Chronic pain
• Anesthesiology
• Neurology
• Physical medicine and rehabilitation