Alternative Therapy for Managing Debilitating Pain
A local doctor in Clifton Park, New York is educating his patients about an alternative form of treatment that can be effective in managing debilitating pain. Dr. Charles Gordon, the medical director of New York Pain Management, is trying to wean patients off prescription opioids and onto procedural-type therapy.
Conventional Treatment Methods
Before seeking help from Dr. Gordon, Carolyn Smith suffered from ongoing pain as a result of nerve damage. She was prescribed prescription opioids for nearly 14 years, which helped her manage the pain but made it difficult for her to stop using them. Smith explained that the body becomes habituated to the medication, making it hard to go off.
Procedural Therapy
Dr. Gordon utilizes procedures such as platelet rich plasma injections, nerve blockers, and rhizotomy to manage pain. Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the pain sensation by destroying nerve ends that carry the pain signal to the brain. Dr. Gordon explained that the procedure can shut down the pain signal for six months to a year.
Patient Testimonials
Michael Farr, who suffered from pain after a bad trucking accident, underwent the rhizotomy procedure and experienced significant relief. “Very life changing,” he said. “I have such a quality of life. That’s a reward: the quality of life. Being able to enjoy my dogs, my grandchildren.”
Carolyn Smith also experienced positive results after undergoing the procedure. “The pins and needles – gone after 14 years,” she said. “You don’t realize what it’s like having pins and needles in your foot all the time.”
Importance of Alternative Therapy
Dr. Gordon emphasized the importance of getting away from opiates and onto other therapies. “The more we can get away from opiates into other therapies, the better off we are individually and as a society,” he said.
Conclusion
Procedural therapy is an effective alternative to prescription opioids for managing debilitating pain. By offering patients a range of treatment options, Dr. Gordon is helping them regain control of their lives and experience improved quality of life.
FAQs
Q: What is procedural therapy?
A: Procedural therapy is a type of treatment that uses minimally invasive procedures to manage pain. It can include platelet rich plasma injections, nerve blockers, and rhizotomy.
Q: What is rhizotomy?
A: Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the pain sensation by destroying nerve ends that carry the pain signal to the brain.
Q: How long does the pain relief last after rhizotomy?
A: The pain relief can last for six months to a year after rhizotomy.
Q: Who is a good candidate for procedural therapy?
A: Anyone experiencing debilitating pain and unable to find relief with prescription opioids may be a good candidate for procedural therapy.
Q: What are the benefits of procedural therapy?
A: Procedural therapy can provide long-lasting pain relief, reduce the risk of addiction, and improve quality of life.
