None — CHRONIC PAIN SUFFERERS: Chronic pain has been said to be one of the most costly health problems in the United States. Annual costs reach almost $100 billion, which includes direct medical expenses, lost income, lost productivity, legal charges, compensation and payments. Chronic pain is a constant sensation triggered in the nervous system that alerts your body of possible injury and tells your body it needs help. The pain can keep triggering the nervous system for weeks, months and even years. Seventy to 85 percent of all people have back pain at some time in their lives. As many as 45 million Americans have chronic, severe headaches, and more than $4 billion is spent each year for over-the-counter pain medications. Chronic pain may result from an illness or an accident or possible ongoing conditions such as arthritis or cancer. (Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and Rush University Medical Center)
CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS: Physicians suggest a multi-disciplinary approach to pain management. Different pain approaches are considered outpatient and can be administered by neurologists, orthopedists, anesthesiologists, oncologists, physiatrists, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, case managers and vocational counselors. Some common treatments include: medications, acupuncture, local electrical stimulation, brain stimulation, surgery, psychotherapy, relaxation, biofeedback and behavior modification. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, some physicians use placebos to treat chronic pain and have shown, in some cases, to lessen pain.
PULSED RADIOFREQUENCY: Pulsed radiofrequency is a minimally-invasive procedure used to reduce pain of damaged joints by disrupting the nerves that carry the pain signals. The procedure is performed with local anesthetic and uses a needle-like tube (cannula) to position between irritated medial branch nerves. After positioned, the radiofrequency electrode is inserted through the cannula and then a weak, electric jolt is administered to test the correct positioning. Lastly, the surgeon uses the electrode to heat the nerve or shock it to disrupt the communication between the brain and the nerve to block the pain signals. The procedure takes about five minutes, and most patients see full relief within a month. (Source: Pain Management Consultants, Boca Raton FL)
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