Living with chronic pain can be debilitating, especially if you don’t have the answers as to why you’re feeling the way you are. Fortunately, if you are living with pain, there are a variety of things your physician can do to help determine the cause.
Most likely, your doctor will begin with bloodwork. From there, they may order a number of tests to help diagnose the cause of your pain. We’ve listed the eight most common below, and what you can expect from each of them.
MRI
An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, allows your doctor to see a clear picture of your internal health without the use of X-rays. Using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer, an MRI takes anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many images your physician orders. You may be required to drink a contrast liquid to help produce clearer images. Because MRIs use a magnet, certain patients, such as those with a pacemaker, should not participate.
CT Scan
CT scans, or Computed Tomography scans, use a combination of computers and X-rays to produce a clear image of a specific cross-section of the body. While the test is happening, you’ll be instructed to lie as still as possible, while the donut-shaped scanning device moves around your body. If it will help create clearer images, your doctor may give you a shot of solution before you begin. Like MRIs, most CT scans can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
Discography
These tests are used to diagnose patients who are considering surgery for chronic back pain. During the test, your doctor will inject dye into the disc that is suspected of causing your pain. The dye can highlight damaged areas that may be contributing to the problem.
Myelogram
Another test for back pain, a myelogram involves your doctor injecting dye into your spinal canal in order to identify nerve compression caused by a fracture or herniated disc.
Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks can not only help diagnose the cause of your pain, they can help treat it as well. During the procedure, your doctor will inject an anesthetic into a nerve location where you most severely experience pain. They may rely on an imaging test to determine the best place to inject the nerve block. Your response to the procedure can inform your doctor on possible causes of pain.
EMG
An EMG, or electromyogram, helps your physician measure muscle activity. They’ll place small needles into your muscles and check their response to electroactivity.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound, sometimes referred to as sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of your body. The sound waves echos are then recorded and displayed as an image in real-time.
Bone Scan
To help diagnose and keep an eye on infection, doctors use bone scans to measure problems or disorders of the bone. They’ll first inject a radioactive material into your bloodstream. The material collects in your bones and can cluster in areas that aren’t functioning normally, to help your doctor determine the cause of your pain.
Pain Care At Townsen Memorial
At Townsen Memorial, treating your pain safely, effectively, and affordably is our top priority. We strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. Our standard of high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and through our Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.
Our team at Townsen Memorial Health System is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. With compassion, quality, integrity, and excellence guiding everything we do, we work tirelessly to improve the lives of those we serve. Pain can deeply affect physical health and emotional well-being, and we are committed to helping patients find relief and regain their quality of life through our comprehensive pain management services.
What is Pain Management and Why is it Important?
Pain management focuses on diagnosing, treating, and alleviating both acute and chronic pain. Whether pain results from injuries, surgeries, or underlying medical conditions, the goal is to reduce discomfort and improve a patient’s overall quality of life.
Pain management involves a variety of techniques and treatments, including medications, physical therapy, interventional procedures, and lifestyle modifications. It is a vital component of healthcare, as untreated or poorly managed pain can lead to reduced mobility, mental health challenges, and diminished independence.
At our Houston hospital locations, pain management is more than just symptom relief—it’s about addressing the underlying causes of pain and restoring patients’ ability to live fulfilling lives. With advanced tools and an empathetic approach, our Houston medical services are designed to meet diverse patient needs.
Comprehensive Pain Management Services at Townsen Memorial
Townsen Memorial takes pride in offering a wide array of pain management solutions that cater to each patient’s unique needs. Our services encompass:
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Ideal for managing back, neck, or leg pain caused by inflammation or nerve irritation.
- Joint Injections: Used to relieve discomfort in areas such as knees, hips, or shoulders due to arthritis or injury.
- Nerve Blocks: Targeted injections to block pain signals from specific nerves.
- Spinal Cord Stimulation: An advanced treatment that delivers mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord to mask pain signals.
Our offerings are supported by state-of-the-art technology and a team of specialists dedicated to delivering personalized care. At our Houston healthcare locations, patients benefit from innovative techniques and evidence-based treatments, ensuring the highest level of care for every individual.
What You Can Expect When You Work With Us
When patients choose Townsen Memorial for pain management, they can expect a comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered experience. From the initial consultation to ongoing care, we prioritize open communication and collaboration. Our team takes the time to understand each patient’s pain history, lifestyle, and goals, ensuring a customized approach to treatment.
Our specialists are not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to patient well-being. At our Houston hospital and other locations, patients can expect a warm and supportive environment where their concerns are heard and their needs are prioritized. By integrating advanced medical technologies with a holistic approach to care, we help patients regain control over their health and lives.
Your Houston Medical Services Partner
We understand how debilitating pain can be and are committed to helping patients find relief through comprehensive pain management services. Whether you're seeking advanced interventional procedures or compassionate solutions, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Visit one of our Houston healthcare locations to explore our pain management offerings and experience the Townsen Memorial difference. Let us partner with you on your journey to improved health and well-being.
