Understanding Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)
Chronic pelvic pain is commonly associated with interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, and irritable bowel syndrome. It often follows an insult such as injury, surgery, or disease, but persists long after the initial insult is managed or resolves. The pain which is left can be debilitating and patients are left with no answer to explain the cause. Patients can experience increased pain with sexual activity, bowel movements, urination or physical activity. Extensive work up including laparoscopic surgery may offer a diagnosis, but rarely offers a solution for pain control. Effective treatment is unlikely with traditional therapies, because the pain is commonly associated with an “up regulation”, or elevated sensitivity, of the nervous system.
In a healthy state, the nervous system can fluctuate between “up regulation” and “down regulation” as needed. The dynamic nature of the nervous system allows for automatic fluctuations as the demands of the body changes. When the system malfunctions, certain pain may be abnormally “up regulated” and harmful to your overall well-being. This response of the nervous system can be modified utilizing nerve blocks to return your body to its natural state and eliminate the pain.
Download more information here (CPP Tri Fold)
Treatment
Understanding that the nervous system is directly involved in chronic pelvic pain, expands the options available for effective treatments to eliminate pain.
The nervous system is responsible for the transmission of impulses. The transmission of pain signals results in an individual feeling pain. When there is an “up regulation” of the nervous system, there is an amplification of the pain sensation. This “up regulation” prevents the pain from subsiding, and results in chronic pain.
A nerve block targeting the specific associated nerves, interrupts the signal pathway, and stops the pain. After successful positive blocks, a temporary catheter called Intellicath(tm) may be recommended. Intellicath(tm) is a temporary catheter used for specific,extended placement, which allows for long term, and sometimes permanent, relief.
Nerve blocks are minimally invasive procedures performed quickly and safely in an outpatient surgery center. An anesthesiologist administers mild sedation for patient comfort, and x-ray or ultrasound is utilized to ensure proper placement. Patients return home the same day often reporting immediate benefit.
Dr. Spiel offers treatment to eliminate the pain.
Click here (CPP Tri Fold)to download our information pack regarding CPP! or Call 732-548-2000 to schedule an evaluation to discuss options to eliminate your pain.