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Introduction
Injections for chronic pain are generally done into a joint space, around specific nerves and sometimes into trigger points. The injection mixture usually contains a long acting local anaesthetic and a long acting steroid. These help by reducing some of the pain signals travelling to the brain. Even though it may not be a cure, the benefits can last for several weeks or months. Sometimes injections are used to help in getting a diagnosis and planning an appropriate surgery. The pain relief from an injection procedure should be taken as a window of opportunity to engage with physiotherapy and undertake regular exercise to improve the long term outcome. Treatment Options The decision on whether to go ahead for an injection procedure is an optional one. The likelihood of the injection being a successful treatment for you is best discussed in the clinic. (a) You could decide not to have an injection at all and look at other conservative strategies to develop your pain coping skills. (b) You could have an injection to help break your pain->activity->increased pain cycling. Thereafter, use a conservative strategy to manage your pain. (c) You could decide to keep having these injections at safe periodic intervals, so long as you find them beneficial. You would be exposed to the possible long term risks of repeated steroid injections. Risks Early
Follow up plan As your pain decreases, you should try to gently increase your exercise. Simple activities like a daily walk, using an exercise bike or swimming on your back will help to improve your muscle tone. It is best to increase your activities slowly. Try not to overdo things on a good day so that you end up paying for it with more pain the following day. A follow up appointment will generally be arranged and you may be requested to fill a form that we use as part of assessments to continuously improve our service. |
Information Leaflets about medications commonly used in chronic pain management
- click to download - Amitriptyline
Nortriptyline
Duloxetine
Gabapentin
Pregabalin
Opioids
DVLA Guidance for driving if on pain medication
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manageyourpain.co.uk
Website updated in June 2022
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