At our downtown Toronto pain management clinic, we offer a
variety of effective pain treatments so our patients can regain control and lead their best lives without physical and emotional burdens.
Nerve Blocks
What are Nerve Blocks?
Peripheral nerve blocks, or neuraxial (along the spine) blocks, are a medical procedure to manage pain
by blocking or numbing specific nerves. This is typically done by injecting a local anesthetic, a corticosteroid, or other medications near the targeted nerve or group of nerves. The procedure can be
performed in various parts of the body, depending on the location of the pain or the medical condition
being treated.
How do they work?
Nerve blocks can help relieve pain by interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain and from the brain.
Nerves responsible for communicating pain from most parts of the body can be temporarily blocked by injecting local anesthetic; this injection is a nerve block. This therapy can provide pain relief, either for a short period of time or longer, depending on the injury, patient characteristics, and the nerve block provided.
During and after procedure
Nerve blocks can be performed for diagnostic purposes to pinpoint the source of pain or for therapeutic reasons to enhance quality of life and functionality. The procedure involves injecting the anesthetic, and you may experience soreness at the injection site.
Conditions that can benefit from Nerve Blocks
The majority of conditions that experience potential therapeutic effects from nerve blocks are those that are related to neuropathic pain, also known as nerve pain. These chronic pain conditions include, but are not limited to:
- Neck, shoulder, back, and knee pain
- Migraines and headaches
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
Our skilled team will evaluate your condition to decide if nerve blocks are right for you.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Plasma (PRP) therapy is a special technique that effectively uses your body’s natural healing powers to treat conditions like osteoarthritis and tendonitis. PRP therapy reduces pain and promotes healing in your muscles and joints.
What is PRP?
PRP therapy uses a concentrated form of platelets from your blood. These platelets contain substances that help repair tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
How does it work?
PRP therapy provides numerous advantages
- Natural Healing: PRP harnesses the power of your body’s healing abilities to enhance tissue repair and alleviate pain.
- Low Risk: As PRP utilizes your blood, the chances of significant complications are minimal.
- Long-lasting Relief: PRP therapy can relieve pain and enhance functionality for various musculoskeletal conditions.
Conditions that can benefit from PRP:
PRP therapy is helpful for various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Tennis elbow
- Chronic plantar fasciitis
Stellate Ganglion Blocks (SGB)
A SGB provides quick relief for chronic pain and has shown promising results in easing PTSD symptoms such as hyper-vigilance, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and being easily startled. It can be an ongoing therapy that helps improve your overall quality of life.
Conditions that can benefit from a Stellate Ganglion Block:
SGBs have been used to treat conditions such as:
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Complex PTSD
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Postherpetic neuralgia
- Neuropathic head, neck, chest, and upper arms pain
Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is a non-surgical regenerative treatment modality that involves injecting a natural solution, often a dextrose based solution, into damaged or degenerated joints, ligaments, and tendons in order to stimulate the body’s healing processes. The primary mechanism of action is believed to be the initiation of a localized inflammatory response, which triggers a cascade of events leading to tissue repair and growth. By strengthening weakened connective tissues and alleviating pain, prolotherapy can help restore function and stability in patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Ketamine
Ketamine is a medication that helps manage nerve pain and is used for its anesthetic properties to treat chronic pain and various mental health conditions. Ketamine binds to receptors in your brain, spinal cord, and body, which helps to block pain signals, manage depression, and reduce inflammation.
Our caring team supports you every step of the way, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the process.