Perineural Injection Therapy (PIT)
Orange County, California
Safe and Effective Treatment for Persistent Pain.
What is Perineural Injection Therapy?
Perineural Injection Therapy (PIT), or Neural Prolotherapy, is an emerging treatment modality designed to alleviate pain by targeting nerves affected by inflammation and injury. This innovative approach is gaining traction in pain management and regenerative medicine for its potential to deliver lasting relief without invasive procedures or long-term medication use.
How Does PIT Work?
The underlying mechanism of PIT is based on the neurogenic theory of pain, which suggests that chronic pain can result from nerve inflammation and subsequent sensitization. When nerves are inflamed, they release various inflammatory mediators that further perpetuate the pain cycle. The dextrose solution used in PIT is believed to interrupt this cycle by:
- Reducing Inflammation: Dextrose can modulate the inflammatory response, reducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other mediators.
- Stabilizing Nerve Function: The solution helps to stabilize the nerve membrane, decreasing its sensitivity and reducing pain signals.
- Promoting Healing: PIT encourages the body’s natural healing processes by creating an environment that supports nerve health.
Conditions Treated with PIT
Perineural Injection Therapy is used to treat a variety of pain conditions, including:
- Neuropathic Pain: Conditions like diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and other forms of nerve pain.
- Musculoskeletal Pain: Chronic conditions like tendinitis, bursitis, and ligament injuries.
- Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A complex pain condition that can benefit from targeted nerve treatment.
- Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain.
- Migraine and Headache Disorders: Certain headaches, including migraines, may respond well to nerve-targeted therapy.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Relief for the pain and tingling of this common nerve entrapment disorder.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: Often affecting runners, includes pain and inflammation along the outer thigh.
- Lateral or Medial Epicondylitis: Nerve pain associated with these conditions, commonly known as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow.
- Low Back Pain: Particularly effective for nerve-related low back pain, a non-surgical option for relief.
- Pain from Scar Tissue: Manage pain and sensitivity in areas where scar tissue has formed.
- Tingling in Hands and Arms: Often resulting from nerve irritation or entrapment.
The Procedure
This injection treatment involves a more dilute dextrose solution compared to Prolotherapy. The injections are given into the subcutaneous tissues where pain is located. The pain relief can be substantial and prolonged.
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation is conducted to identify the nerves contributing to the pain.
- Injection: A fine needle injects dextrose solution around the affected nerves. Ultrasound guidance may be used to ensure accuracy.
- Post-Injection Care: Patients are usually advised to rest and may experience immediate pain relief, though multiple sessions are often required for optimal results.
Benefits of PIT
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgical interventions, PIT involves minimal risk and no significant downtime.
- Reduction in Medication Use: Patients may reduce or eliminate their need for pain medications, which can have side effects and potential for dependency.
- Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients experience sustained pain relief after completing a series of injections.
- Enhanced Mobility: By reducing pain, PIT can improve overall function and quality of life.
Risks and Considerations:
While generally considered safe, PIT is not without risks. Potential side effects include:
- Infection: As with any injection, there is a small risk of infection.
- Pain at Injection Site: Temporary discomfort or bruising may occur.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible, mainly if local anesthetics are used.
Perineural Injection Therapy offers a promising alternative for individuals seeking natural, non-surgical treatments for chronic pain in Orange County, California. As with any medical treatment that OC Sports and Wellness offers, it’s important to consult Dr. Sunshine to determine if PIT suits your condition.