If you are in the process of addiction recovery, you should be proud of yourself. Every step you take towards recovery from addiction is a win worth acknowledging. Do not be afraid of where you are in the process.
The recovery process can be difficult, as you may already know. So, it is important to seek out help however you can. One way you can make recovery a bit easier is to try interventional pain management. It is the best solution if you struggle with chronic pain. In this article, Dr. Brandon Claflin shares how pain management can help with addiction recovery.
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How Are Pain and Addiction Connected?
Chronic pain and addiction are closely connected. Many people struggling with addiction began by using substances to manage their physical pain. Unfortunately, this reliance can lead to dependency or even open the cycle of addiction.
Unmanaged pain can become a major obstacle for those in recovery. It can increase the risk of relapse as people seek relief from their discomfort.
Opioids have historically been used extensively in pain management. These drugs have risks of their own, particularly for people in recovery from substance abuse. This is why it is so important to find non-addictive pain management techniques.
What Is Interventional Pain Management?
Interventional pain management is a professional approach to pain treatment that focusses on the underlying cause of the pain rather than merely masking its symptoms. This method places a strong emphasis on non-addictive treatments meant to improve mental health and reduce suffering.
Common interventional pain management techniques can include the following:
- Nerve Blocks: Injections that block pain signals travelling to the brain.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation: A device implanted near the spine that sends electrical pulses to reduce pain perception.
- Joint Injections: Targeted injections to reduce inflammation and pain in specific joints.
Can Interventional Pain Management Help With Addiction Recovery?
We have already seen the link between pain and addiction. So it is no surprise that one method that can help people stay sober is pain management. Let’s find out how interventional pain management can help with addiction recovery:
Minimises the Need for Medications
One of the most important ways is by reducing a patient’s dependence on medications, particularly opioids. This way, interventional pain management can help with addiction. Modern breakthroughs in pain management care have significantly reduced the need for high doses of painkillers.
This approach can lower the risk of relapse for patients who are in recovery. You can focus on your recovery and build a greater sense of control over your health by breaking the reliance on pain medications.
Supports Mental Health
Pain impacts more than just the body; it can affect mental health, too. Chronic pain can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, all of which can be triggers for relapse.
Pain therapy that is interventional offers much-needed alleviation. You can resume your preferred pastimes and have more mobility thanks to it. This often has a positive ripple effect that improves mental health and reduces the mental strain caused by chronic pain.
Provides Customised Care
Every person’s pain and recovery journey is unique. This is why interventional pain management professionals build unique treatment plans for each of their patients.
Board-certified pain specialists are able to assess your condition and recuperation requirements and create a plan that will assist you reach your objectives. You may be sure that your particular difficulties are recognised and heard, whether the goal is to treat joint inflammation or target particular nerve discomfort.
Can Pain Management Clinics Support Recovery?
Pain management clinics work closely with addiction specialists, especially for patients who are already struggling with addiction. Many clinics also have access to services like physical therapy. These may work with local counsellors or therapists. It also helps patients get all the care they need to successfully manage their pain.
How to Start Interventional Pain Management
Making your initial visit is the first step towards beginning interventional pain management if it seems like a good fit for you. In addition to some frequent myths and their truths, continue reading for some advice on how to take those first steps.
Common Misconceptions
Many people don’t take those first steps toward interventional pain management because they have some misconceptions about what it is like. This is not their fault. In fact, these misconceptions are quite common.
Here are a few misconceptions about pain management:
- It’s Too Expensive: Many people assume these treatments are unaffordable, but most are covered by insurance.
- It’s Only for Severe Pain: Interventional pain management is not just for extreme cases. It can work for many conditions, from arthritic joint pain to nerve issues. If you are in pain, pain management is an option for you.
- It’s Invasive or Risky: Modern interventional techniques are minimally invasive and have been proven safe. Most patients return to daily activities quickly.
Find Accessible Care
Pain management clinics are more accessible than ever. Many even offer convenient locations and flexible appointment options to serve each patient’s needs.
Finding a pain management clinic near you is simple. Start by searching online for local clinics or asking your primary care doctor for a referral. Many clinics provide consultations to assess your pain and draw up a plan of action. Websites and patient reviews can also help you find a clinic with a trusted reputation.
Take the First Step
When you have found a clinic that matches what you are looking for, take the first step by scheduling an appointment. Write down a list of questions you have, and remember to advocate for yourself.
You might also be asked some questions by your physician. Making ensuring you include as much information as you can is crucial. If at all possible, keep a pain log for a few days before to your appointment. Note the intensity of your discomfort, if it becomes better or worse, and whether it fluctuates throughout the day.
Your doctor can put your mind at ease with all of this information. They work with you to develop a treatment plan you are comfortable with. Next, you will likely go in for a follow-up to assess how effective your treatments have been.
Find a Pain Management Doctor Today!
Our approach to addiction recovery is changing as a result of interventional pain management. Additionally, there are several efficient and non-addictive ways to manage pain. Opioids, however, are occasionally the most widely used item in the pain management toolbox. You can concentrate on getting better and make significant progress towards sobriety once your pain is under control.
