Helpful Educational Links for Patients

Take control of your health with our carefully curated collection of resources! Whether you're looking for expert advice on pain management, tips for improving overall wellness, or the latest information on innovative treatments, our comprehensive list of helpful links is here to support you.

Procedures and Conditions

A

Abdominal Pain is discomfort, aching, or pain felt in the area between the chest and pelvis. It can result from a wide range of causes, involving organs in the digestive, urinary, reproductive, or other systems. The pain may vary in location, intensity, duration, and nature (e.g., sharp, dull, cramping, or burning), depending on the underlying issue.


Adhesive Capsulitis commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the capsule of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement.


Achilles Tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It commonly occurs due to overuse, repetitive stress, or sudden increases in activity.


Acute Headaches is a sudden onset headache that lasts for a short duration, ranging from minutes to hours. It can be mild to severe and may result from various causes, including stress, dehydration, infections, or underlying medical conditions.


Arthritis is a general term for inflammation of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. It can affect one or multiple joints and varies in severity from mild discomfort to severe disability.

B

Back pain refers to discomfort, soreness, or pain felt in the back, ranging from mild to severe and affecting any part of the spine (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions). It is one of the most common medical complaints and can result from a variety of causes, including injury, poor posture, degenerative conditions, or underlying systemic diseases.


Bulging Disc is when an intervertebral disc extends beyond its normal boundary but does not rupture. It is a common spinal condition that can cause pain, numbness, or weakness if the disc presses on nearby nerves

C

Cervical Facet Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic neck pain caused by facet joint arthritis or injury. It works by using radiofrequency energy to disrupt the pain signals from the medial branch nerves that supply the cervical facet joints. 


Cervical Radiculopathy often called a "pinched nerve," occurs when a nerve root in the neck (cervical spine) is compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands.


Cluster Headaches are a rare but extremely painful type of headache that occur in cyclical patterns or "clusters," often at the same time each day. They are one of the most severe forms of headache, causing intense pain around one eye or on one side of the head.


Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This leads to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.


Chronic Pain is persistent pain that lasts longer than 3 to 6 months, beyond the normal healing period. It can affect any part of the body and may be mild, moderate, or severe, impacting daily life and mental health.


Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that usually affects an arm or leg after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. It is characterized by severe, persistent pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature.

D

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition in which the spinal discs gradually wear down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is a common part of aging but can also result from injury or repetitive strain.


Disc Hernia (herniated, slipped, or ruptured disc) occurs when the soft inner gel of an intervertebral disc pushes through its outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.


Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a nerve damage condition caused by high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It primarily affects the feet, legs, hands, and arms, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness.

E

Epidural Lysis of Adhesions (LOA) also known as the Racz procedure, is a minimally invasive technique used to break up scar tissue (adhesions) in the epidural space of the spine. These adhesions can form after surgery, injury, or chronic inflammation, leading to persistent pain by trapping and compressing nerves.


Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) in the Cervical Spine is an epidural steroid injection is a medical procedure commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation in the spine, particularly in the areas around the spinal nerves. This procedure is often performed by pain management specialists, anesthesiologists, or radiologists.


Extruded Discs occur when the inner gel-like material (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc in the spine pushes through a tear or rupture in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can lead to nerve compression, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, arms, or neck, depending on the disc's location.

F

Facet Joint Injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. These small joints connect the vertebrae and can become inflamed due to arthritis, injury, or degeneration. The injection delivers a local anesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce pain and inflammation.


Facet Joint Syndrome is a condition caused by degeneration, inflammation, or injury to the facet joints—the small joints that connect the vertebrae in the spine. This can lead to chronic neck or back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.


Facet Joint are small, paired joints located on the back of the spine. They contribute to the flexibility and stability of the spine, enabling movements such as bending and twisting.


Frozen Shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It develops gradually and can take months to years to resolve.


Face Pain can occur due to various conditions affecting the nerves, muscles, joints, or sinuses in the facial area. It may be acute or chronic and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. The pain may be localized or radiate to other areas, depending on the underlying cause.


Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points throughout the body. It can also affect mood, sleep, and cognitive function, and is often associated with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and anxiety.


Foot Pain is a common issue that can affect any part of the foot, including the toes, arch, heel, and the bottom of the foot. It can result from a wide range of causes, including injuries, overuse, or underlying medical conditions.

G

Genicular Nerve Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic knee pain by disrupting pain signals from the genicular nerves using radiofrequency energy. It is commonly performed for patients who have persistent knee pain despite treatments like physical therapy, medications, or even knee surgery.


Genicular Nerve Block is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and temporarily relieve chronic knee pain by injecting a local anesthetic near the genicular nerves, which transmit pain signals from the knee to the brain. It is often a precursor to Genicular Nerve Ablation if successful.

H

Headaches is a common condition that causes pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Headaches can vary in intensity, duration, and cause, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain.


Herniated Disc is a common condition that causes pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Headaches can vary in intensity, duration, and cause, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain.


Hammer Toe is a deformity where one or more toes are bent downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer shape. It most commonly affects the second, third, or fourth toes and can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected toe.


Heel Spur is a bony growth that forms on the heel bone (calcaneus) due to prolonged pressure or strain, often resulting from plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs can cause pain and inflammation in the heel, especially when standing or walking.


Hip Pain is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. It can be caused by musculoskeletal issues, joint problems, or underlying medical conditions, and can radiate to the thigh, groin, or even lower back. The severity of the pain can vary depending on the cause.


Hip Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sacs) near the hip joint. These bursae act as cushions to reduce friction between bones, muscles, and tendons. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the hip, particularly on the outer side.

I

Intrathecal Pump Implant is a medical device that delivers pain or muscle relaxant medication directly into the spinal fluid (intrathecal space). This method provides targeted pain relief while using much smaller doses than oral medications, reducing side effects.


Please click on the link to see an explanation from Dr. Mambalam https://youtu.be/ToUIXF8dNmc

J

Juvenile Dermatostits (JDM) is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the muscles (myositis) and skin (dermatitis), leading to muscle weakness especially in the neck, shoulders, and hips.


Joint Pain refers to discomfort, inflammation, or soreness in one or more joints of the body, such as the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, or fingers. 

K

Knee Injuries are common and can affect the bones, ligaments, tendons, or cartilage in the knee joint. They can result from sports, accidents, overuse, or degenerative conditions.


Knee Pain is a common condition that can result from a variety of causes, such as injuries, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. It can affect the kneecap, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or bones, and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits mobility.

L

Lateral Epicondylitis commonly known as Tennis Elbow, is a painful condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outside of the elbow). It leads to pain, tenderness, and weakness in the elbow and forearm, making everyday activities difficult.


Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection (LESI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve lower back and leg pain caused by nerve inflammation or compression in the lumbar spine. It involves injecting corticosteroids and a local anesthetic into the epidural space to reduce swelling and pain.

 

Lumbar Radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression, irritation, or inflammation of a spinal nerve root in the lower back (lumbar spine). It commonly leads to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the buttocks, legs, and feet, often referred to as sciatica when the sciatic nerve is affected.


Lower Back Pain is a common condition that affects the lumbar spine and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It can be caused by injuries, poor posture, degenerative conditions, or nerve compression.


M

Medial Branch Block (MBB) is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and temporarily relieve pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. It involves injecting a local anesthetic near the medial branch nerves, which transmit pain signals from the facet joints to the brain.


Migraines are an intense, throbbing headache that may be accompanied by nausea or dizziness. A migraine can last from hours to days


Click the link to hear Dr. Hong explain migraine treatments https://youtu.be/59KgIKsPSvQ 


Motor Vehicle Injuries Pain management after a motor vehicle injury focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and preventing long-term complications. Treatment varies based on the severity and type of injury, ranging from mild muscle strains to severe spinal cord trauma.

N

Neck Pain is a common condition that can result from muscle strain, nerve compression, injuries, or degenerative conditions. It may range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that affects daily activities.


Neuropathic Pain is chronic pain caused by nerve damage or dysfunction in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) or peripheral nervous system (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord). It often presents as burning, shooting, tingling, or electric shock-like pain and can be difficult to treat.

O

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions worldwide, particularly in older adults.


Occipital Neuralgia is a chronic pain condition caused by irritation or compression of the occipital nerves, which run from the upper spine through the scalp. It leads to intense headaches, sharp or throbbing pain, and sensitivity in the back of the head, neck, and behind the eyes.


Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures. It occurs when bone density decreases, making bones more fragile and increasing the risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.

P

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) is a regenerative treatment that uses a patient’s own blood to promote healing, tissue repair, and pain relief. It involves extracting platelet-rich plasma, which contains growth factors, and injecting it into the injured or damaged area to stimulate healing.


Pelvic Pain refers to discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic region, which may be acute (sudden) or chronic (lasting more than 6 months). It can result from issues in the reproductive, urinary, musculoskeletal, or digestive systems.


Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) is a condition where individuals experience pain or discomfort in a limb that has been amputated. The pain is real and results from misfiring nerves and changes in the brain’s sensory processing.


Piriformis Syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, compresses the sciatic nerve, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in the buttock, hip, and down the leg. It is often mistaken for sciatica but originates from muscle irritation rather than a spinal issue.


Plantar Fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It typically causes sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning or after prolonged activity.


Postherpetic Neuralgia is a chronic nerve pain condition that occurs after a shingles infection. It happens when damaged nerve fibers continue sending pain signals to the brain, even after the shingles rash has healed. PHN is the most common complication of shingles and can last for months or even years


Post Laminectomy Syndrome (PLS) also known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), is a condition where chronic back or leg pain persists or worsens after spinal surgery, particularly after a laminectomy (a procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves). 


Prolapsed Disc also known as a herniated or slipped disc, occurs when the soft inner gel (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc pushes through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can cause nerve compression, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area.

R

Radiofrequency Neurotomy (RFN) of the Lumbar Facet is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic lower back pain caused by facet joint arthritis or dysfunction. It works by using radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and disrupt the medial branch nerves, which transmit pain signals from the lumbar facet joints to the brain


Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is a chronic pain condition that affects the nerves, skin, muscles, and bones, usually following an injury, surgery, or trauma. It is characterized by severe, persistent pain, swelling, and changes in skin temperature and color. 


Rotator Cuff Tear is a partial or complete tear of the tendons and muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow arm movement. It can result from injury, overuse, or age-related degeneration, leading to shoulder pain, weakness, and limited mobility.



S

Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Steroid Injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce pain and inflammation in the sacroiliac joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis. It is commonly used to treat lower back, buttock, and leg pain caused by SI joint dysfunction, arthritis, or injury.


Please click the link to learn more https://youtu.be/4GSBmcw592s


Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain is discomfort originating from the sacroiliac joints, which connect the sacrum (lower spine) to the pelvis. It can cause lower back, buttock, hip, or leg pain, often mistaken for sciatica or lumbar spine issues.


Sciatica refers to pain, numbness, or tingling caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs. It is typically felt on one side of the body and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain.


Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to the side in an “S” or “C” shape. It can range from mild to severe and may cause postural changes, back pain, and breathing difficulties in severe cases.


Shoulder Pain can result from injuries, overuse, arthritis, or nerve-related issues. Effective pain management focuses on reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and addressing underlying causes through a combination of medications, physical therapy, and interventional treatments.


Spinal Stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar stenosis) and neck (cervical stenosis), leading to pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking.


Subacromial Injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat shoulder pain and inflammation caused by conditions affecting the subacromial space (the area between the acromion and rotator cuff tendons). The injection typically contains a corticosteroid and local anesthetic to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.


Superion Interspinous Spacer is a minimally invasive implant designed to treat lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) by reducing nerve compression and improving mobility. It is placed between the spinous processes of the affected vertebrae to maintain space in the spinal canal, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.


Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain and nerve-related conditions by injecting local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a collection of nerves in the neck that regulate the sympathetic nervous system. It helps reduce pain, improve circulation, and regulate nerve function.

T

Thoracic Epidural Steroid Injection (TESI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mid-back (thoracic spine). It involves injecting a corticosteroid and anesthetic into the epidural space to reduce nerve irritation.


Trigger Point Injections is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve muscle pain and tightness caused by trigger points—painful muscle knots that do not relax. The injection contains a local anesthetic, with or without a corticosteroid, to reduce pain and inflammation.


Tension Headaches are the most common type of headache, characterized by a dull, aching pain that typically affects both sides of the head. They are caused by muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, often triggered by stress, poor posture, or eye strain.


Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a chronic nerve pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensations from the face to the brain. It causes sudden, severe, stabbing or electric shock-like pain in the face, usually on one side.

U

Upper Back Pain generally refers to discomfort in the thoracic spine region, which spans from the base of your neck to the bottom of your rib cage. It can result from muscle strains, poor posture, injury, or even stress. Common treatments include physical therapy, exercises to strengthen and stretch the back muscles, over-the-counter pain relievers, and lifestyle modifications to improve posture and reduce strain.

V

Vascular Pain discomfort caused by issues in the blood vessels, such as poor circulation, blockages, or inflammation. It often results from conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), varicose veins, or blood clots. Symptoms may include aching, cramping, throbbing, or a heavy sensation, often worsening with activity and improving with rest. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve medications, lifestyle changes, or medical procedures to improve blood flow.


Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis or trauma. It involves injecting bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it, reduce pain, and restore spinal function. The procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and requires only a small incision. Recovery is usually quick, with many patients experiencing immediate pain relief.


Vertebral Body Fractures are breaks in the bones of the spine, often caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or metastatic disease. These fractures can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and spinal deformity. Symptoms vary but may include back pain, height loss, or nerve-related issues if the spinal cord is affected. Treatment depends on severity and may include pain management, bracing, physical therapy, or surgical procedures like vertebroplasty or spinal fusion for severe cases.


Vertebral Compression Fractures (VCFs) occur when a vertebra collapses due to pressure, often caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer. These fractures can lead to back pain, height loss, and spinal deformity. Symptoms may include sudden or gradual onset of pain, worsening with movement. Treatment options range from pain management and bracing to minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty to stabilize the spine and relieve discomfort.

W

Whiplash Pain occurs due to a sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck, commonly from car accidents or sports injuries. It can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and sometimes nerve-related symptoms like tingling or weakness. Treatment typically includes rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and gentle exercises to restore mobility and reduce discomfort. Most cases improve within a few weeks, but some may lead to chronic pain


X

X-Ray Guided Procedures use real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) to help doctors accurately perform minimally invasive treatments. These procedures are commonly used for pain management, joint injections, biopsies, and spinal treatments like vertebroplasty or nerve blocks. The X-ray guidance ensures precision, improves safety, and enhances treatment effectiveness while minimizing complications.