Non-Surgical Treatment offered at Maryland Spine and Sports Medicine

Epidural Injections:  For sciatica and back pain.  Anti-inflammatory medicine is placed in the epidural space near an injured disc of inflamed nerve.  X-ray image guidance and local anesthetic are used for comfort.  If a specific nerve root is targeted, this is referred to as a trans-foraminal injection or selective nerve root block.

Facet Blocks:  For the treatment of arthritic pain in the spine.  Anti-inflammatory medicine and anesthetic are placed in the joint space between spinal bones.  X-ray image guidance and anesthesia are used for the procedure.

Radio Frequency Denervation: When chronic arthritis pain of the spine limits function, the tiny nerves that supply the joints can be selectively blocked so that less pain is felt from these joints.  X-ray image guidance and local anesthetic are used for the procedure.

Percutaneous Disc Decompression: For the treatment of small disc herniations.  A small needle is inserted into the disc under x-ray guidance, and disc material is removed through the needle to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Viscosupplementation: For mild to moderate arthritis of the knees.  A joint “lubricant” which simulates normal joint fluid has been shown to be effective in reducing pain for six months to 1 year.  It is injected under ultrasound or x-ray guidance with local anesthetic for comfort.

Other Joint and Tendon Injections: Using either x-ray image or ultrasound imaging, many joints or tendon areas can be injected with anti-inflammatory medication to facilitate more rapid progress with a program of rehabilitation for joint or tendon pain.  We have success with shoulder, elbow, hand, hip, knee and facet joints.  Carpal tunnel injections often can relieve symptoms without surgery.

Acupuncture: A method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing to improve functioning.  This is done by inserting tiny needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at very precise acupuncture points.  Dr.  Collins offers this treatment in our office. Platelet Rich Plasma Injection:  For treatment of chronic tendonitis or partial tendon tears. It is recommended especially for chronic tennis elbow. A small amount of the patient’s own blood is drawn and then platelets are concentrated via centrifuge and injected beside the tendon. Recent research indicates this may stimulate the body to heal the tendon.

For more information on these treatments or to make an appointment, please call our office at 443-535-9900.