Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, can be a debilitating condition that significantly affects quality of life. Traditional treatments often include medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. However, a growing number of patients and healthcare providers are turning to innovative and minimally invasive solutions such as nerve hydrodissection. This technique has gained traction in the medical community as an effective treatment for nerve entrapment and inflammation. At Santa Cruz Core, nerve hydrodissection therapies are available to help individuals experiencing chronic nerve pain regain comfort and mobility.
What is Nerve Hydrodissection?
Nerve hydrodissection is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the injection of a fluid—typically a combination of saline, anesthetic, and sometimes regenerative substances—around a nerve to separate it from surrounding tissues. This process helps to free entrapped nerves from adhesions, reduce inflammation, and restore normal function.
By carefully injecting the fluid under ultrasound guidance, practitioners can ensure precision and safety, avoiding unnecessary trauma to the nerve. Hydrodissection is particularly effective for conditions where nerves become compressed due to scar tissue, muscle tightness, or structural abnormalities.
Conditions Treated with Nerve Hydrodissection
Nerve hydrodissection can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Entrapment of the median nerve in the wrist can cause tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand. Hydrodissection can help free the nerve and improve symptoms.
- Sciatic Nerve Pain: Sciatica, often caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, can lead to shooting pain down the leg. Hydrodissection helps release the nerve from tight muscles or connective tissue.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of nerves in the neck and upper chest can cause pain and numbness in the arms. Hydrodissection can relieve this compression effectively.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Patients with diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage from injuries can benefit from the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects of this therapy.
- Post-Surgical Nerve Entrapment: Scar tissue formation after surgery can trap nerves, causing chronic pain. Hydrodissection can help alleviate discomfort in such cases.
How Does Nerve Hydrodissection Work?
During a nerve hydrodissection procedure, a healthcare provider:
- Identifies the affected nerve using ultrasound imaging to pinpoint the exact location of entrapment or inflammation.
- Injects the hydrodissection fluid around the nerve to create space and gently separate it from surrounding tissues.
- Monitors the response to ensure that the nerve is fully released and the patient experiences relief.
This technique is performed in an outpatient setting and typically requires little to no downtime, making it an attractive alternative to more invasive interventions.
Benefits of Nerve Hydrodissection
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgical procedures, nerve hydrodissection does not require incisions or extensive recovery time.
- Reduced Inflammation: The fluid used in the procedure helps to flush out inflammatory substances and promote healing.
- Immediate and Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients experience immediate improvement, with effects that can last for months.
- Ultrasound-Guided Precision: The use of ultrasound imaging ensures that the injection is delivered accurately, reducing the risk of complications.
- Alternative to Medication or Surgery: Patients who wish to avoid long-term medication use or surgical interventions can benefit from this therapy.
Who is a Good Candidate for Nerve Hydrodissection?
Patients experiencing chronic nerve pain that has not responded to conventional treatments may be good candidates for nerve hydrodissection. Those suffering from nerve entrapment due to repetitive motion injuries, post-surgical scar tissue, or inflammatory conditions can particularly benefit. However, as with any medical procedure, consultation with a qualified practitioner is necessary to determine eligibility and expected outcomes.
Nerve Hydrodissection at Santa Cruz Core
For individuals seeking relief from chronic nerve pain, Santa Cruz Core offers nerve hydrodissection therapies as part of its integrative health services. With a team of skilled practitioners utilizing cutting-edge ultrasound guidance, patients receive precise and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs.
If you are struggling with nerve pain and looking for an alternative to surgery or long-term medication use, nerve hydrodissection may be the solution. Book a consultation at Santa Cruz Core to explore how this innovative treatment can help restore your mobility and well-being.
Sources
- Bhatia, A., & Brull, R. (2013). “Review of Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection for Peripheral Nerve Entrapments.” Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine.
- Smith, J., & McWhorter, J. (2019). “Minimally Invasive Techniques for Neuropathic Pain: A Review of Nerve Hydrodissection.” Pain Research and Management.
- Chang, K. V., Wu, W. T., Han, D. S., & Özçakar, L. (2018). “Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection for Nerve Entrapment Syndromes: A Narrative Review.” Pain Physician.
