Chronic pain can persist even after injured tissues have healed, particularly when the nervous system becomes increasingly sensitive to pain signals. Ketamine infusion takes a different approach to pain management treatment by acting on pathways involved in how the brain and spinal cord process those signals.
Freedom Spine & Pain Center brings multiple areas of advanced training to complex pain care. Rajesh K. Sharma, MD, is board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management, while Vrunda H. Pandya, MD, completed a fellowship in Regional Anesthesia at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Hospital for Special Surgery.
For certain persistent pain conditions, looking at how the nervous system processes pain can help determine whether therapies such as ketamine infusion deserve consideration.
What Do NMDA Receptors Have to Do With Pain?
NMDA receptors are found throughout the nervous system and play a role in communication between nerve cells. They are also involved in processes that can make the nervous system more responsive to pain.
With some chronic pain conditions, repeated pain signals may contribute to central sensitization. The nervous system essentially becomes more reactive, so sensations that would normally cause limited discomfort may produce a stronger or more persistent pain response.
How Does Ketamine Infusion Affect These Receptors?
Ketamine blocks NMDA receptor activity. By influencing this pathway, ketamine infusion may interrupt some of the abnormal signaling associated with sensitized pain pathways.
Rather than simply numbing one painful area, ketamine works within the nervous system. This mechanism is one reason it may be considered for certain difficult-to-treat conditions.
Treatment decisions depend on factors such as:
- The cause and duration of the pain
- Previous treatments and their results
- The type of symptoms being experienced
- Current medications and overall health
- Whether nerve sensitization may be contributing to symptoms
When Might Ketamine Infusion Be Considered?
Ketamine infusion is not an appropriate treatment for every type of pain. It may be considered for select patients with persistent or neuropathic pain that has not responded adequately to more conventional therapies.
A thorough evaluation is important before treatment because chronic pain can involve several overlapping sources. Identifying whether pain arises primarily from nerves, joints, the spine, muscles, or altered nervous system signaling helps guide a more individualized treatment strategy.
Explore Ketamine Infusion for Pain Management in Boerne, Kerrville, and San Antonio, TX
Persistent pain may require a different approach when standard treatments have provided limited relief. Freedom Spine & Pain Center evaluates the underlying contributors to chronic pain and whether ketamine infusion or another pain management option may be appropriate. To discuss ongoing symptoms and schedule a consultation, call 210-920-8945.