Doctors specializing in pain management, or Physiatrists, focus on the non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including the back pain, neck pain, disc problems, or arm and leg pain that often occur due to an auto accident. At Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation, this type of Medical Doctor leads a team of practitioners (including physical therapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists, and Chiropractic Doctors) in diagnosing and treating auto accident patients with the healthiest, most conservative and effective treatment options.
Our Medical Director will work to create a program of care to reduce pain, increase mobility, and (when necessary) help patients adjust to the use of assistive devices such as wheelchairs or braces. An auto accident is a traumatic event; a Physiatrist also addresses the emotional and social needs of patients during the pain management and rehabilitation process.
The model of care at Monmouth Pain and Rehabilitation centers on harnessing the body’s ability to heal naturally, without surgery or excessive drug use. In some cases, however, the pain caused by auto accident injuries is so great that patients are unable to use physical therapy, acupuncture, and/or chiropractic care to relieve pain. When this happens, our pain management specialist may recommend the use of an injection involving a corticosteroid and/or anesthetic numbing agent. The types of injections performed at our Red Bank facility are outlined below:
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) are used to treat inflammation and pain associated with a number auto accident-related conditions, including back pain, herniated or bulging discs, or abnormal alignment of the vertebrae. The epidural space surrounds the spinal sac and provides cushioning for the nerves and spinal cord. When steroids are injected in this area, they produce an anti-inflammatory reaction that can decrease pain and help patients increase functioning.
Facet Joint Injections (injections of a long-lasting steroid) are administered in the facet joints, located between the vertebrae of each spinal segment. Facet Joint Injections are used in auto accident cases in which pain has developed in a joint of the body.
Sacroiliac Joint Injections are administered in the Sacroiliac Joint, which is located between the sacrum (the bone in the lower portion of the spine, below the lumbar spine) and the right and left iliac (pelvic) bones.
Coccyx Injections may be used when it has been established that pain is originating from the coccyx (tailbone).
Our pain management specialist also performs Peripheral Joint Injections, Trigger Point Injections (for pain originating in the muscles), and Sympathetic Blocks. The purpose of all of these treatments is to increase functioning so that patients can use Physical Therapy and other conservative treatments at our practice.
