Many people suffer from chronic pain, but it’s not always easy to find a treatment option that works. Most medications require daily intake, and they tend to lose their effectiveness after prolonged use. However, ketamine can treat your chronic pain without these drawbacks, so it’s worth exploring whether this drug could work for you. Learn more about ketamine’s potential to relieve your chronic pain in this article on ketamine as a treatment for chronic pain.
The science behind how ketamine works for chronic pain
When you have chronic pain, it means that your nervous system is in a constant state of fight or flight. This causes your body to release stress hormones, which can lead to inflammation. Ketamine works by blocking the receptors that these stress hormones bind to, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain. It also changes how the brain perceives pain signals, so you feel less sensation from them. Plus, ketamine doesn’t just block the sensation of pain – it also blocks our memory of what caused us to feel that way in the first place.
Who is getting treatment for chronic pain?
According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 100 million American adults suffer from chronic pain. This pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, back problems, fibromyalgia, and migraines. Many people who suffer from chronic pain are unable to find relief with traditional treatments like pain medication and physical therapy. When chronic pain is left untreated, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment with ketamine typically lasts for a period of two to six weeks but varies from person to person. During this time, patients may experience significant pain relief. In some cases, ketamine may be used as a long-term treatment option for chronic pain. Studies show that repeated use of ketamine at low doses can reduce chronic pain symptoms and increase quality of life without many side effects.
For more information on how ketamine can help you manage your chronic pain, contact our office today!