What are ketamine infusions?
Ketamine infusion therapy is a type of pain-management treatment used for reducing ongoing pain, especially when other pain treatments haven’t worked. The treatment infuses an anesthetic directly into your bloodstream for fast absorption. Ketamine infusions work by resetting your central nervous system’s sensitivity to pain.
What are ketamine infusions used for?
You may be a candidate for ketamine infusions if you experience:
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Back, neck, knee, hip or shoulder pain
- Other types of joint pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Ongoing (chronic) pain
- Pain due to car accidents
- Discomfort from work-related accidents
Ketamine infusions may also improve your mood if you struggle with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other mood disorders.
Are ketamine infusions right for me?
You may be a candidate for ketamine infusions if you have severe or ongoing pain that hasn't resolved with other treatments. The experts at South Lake Pain Institute review your symptoms and medical history, check your vital signs, and complete a physical exam. They may also order blood tests, nerve tests, X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, or another imaging procedure.
What should I expect during ketamine infusions?
During ketamine infusions, you relax in a comfortable reclining chair. If you’d like to, you can bring something to read to help pass the time.
Your provider administers ketamine into your bloodstream using a fine needle. The infusions usually last about 45 minutes. After a few hours, you can go home but have a loved one or friend drive you. Take the rest of the day off from work.
What happens after my infusion?
After receiving a ketamine infusion, you may find significant pain relief within a week. About 50-60% of patients experience pain relief after just one infusion. It could last 1-11 months or longer*. The South Lake Pain Institute providers continue to monitor your pain levels and offer repeat ketamine infusions when necessary to give you long-lasting comfort.
To learn more about ketamine infusions at South Lake Pain Institute and find out if they’re right for you, call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book an appointment online today.
*Individual results may vary
