Epidural is a popular drug known for its efficacy in providing pain relief in pregnant women. However, this is not the only application of epidural injections. The location of the epidural space is outside the spinal cord. An epidural injection in New Brunswick can have pain-relieving effects on chronically ill patients. Although this treatment is effective in helping patients with chronic pain regain mobility, not every patient is a candidate. Moreover, doctors can only offer the injections in low doses to minimize the side effects of the treatment.
What are epidural nerve blocks?
Pain is a sensation that travels to your brain via sensory receptors in the nerves. Epidural nerve blocks are a solution for surgery patients because surgeons provide these medications to block specific nerves from transmitting pain signals to the brain. As a result, patients undergo a comfortable and painless surgery, which helps make the surgeons work easier.
The delivery technique for epidural nerve blocks is to your spine via a catheter. The catheter will continuously deliver epidural nerve blocks to the blood vessels near the spine, traveling to the brain to numb the targeted nerves. Most patients have concerns about the kind of sensation during treatment. Although epidural nerve blocks interfere with pain signals, you can still feel pressure and touch. Patients who receive epidural nerve blocks for peripheral parts of their bodies can walk with support.
What are epidural injections?
These medications can help reduce inflammation in specific areas of your body. Your doctor must incorporate imaging technology while delivering epidural injections for safety purposes. A special dye can help guide your doctor in injecting the epidural in the right place and thus avoid adversities. Before providing the injection, your doctor should locate the nerve transmitting the pain and select a location on the spinal cord to inject the epidural. Doctors treat most spinal diseases, for example, spinal stenosis or herniated discs, with epidural injections.
Who should not get an epidural?
Getting an epidural may be risky for certain patients, especially considering the side effects associated with the treatment. Your doctors should carefully review your medical history to determine your candidacy for epidural injections. Some of the factors that rule out epidural as a solution for your pain include:
- Being allergic to anesthesia
- Having blood clotting problems
- Being on specific prescriptions
- Having an infection or blood clotting problems.
Living with chronic pain can affect the quality of your life and may cause you to develop mental health conditions that deter you from interacting with your friends and family. You do not have to live in pain no matter what your disease is. Finding a treatment, like epidural, for your chronic pain may be what you need to put your life back in order. Also, ensure you are receiving epidurals from a certified doctor to minimize the risk of complications. Contact Pain & Anesthesia Care to learn what to expect during epidural treatments and how these medications can improve your symptoms and give you the quality of life you deserve.