What type of pain management is practiced at New Vision Pain Management?

At New Vision, our goal is to control your acute or chronic pain problem by trying to find the source of the pain. While this is not always possible, we emphasize interventional techniques, both diagnostic and therapeutic, as opposed to the pharmacological management (e.g. giving out medications). Obviously, narcotic and other adjunctive medications are prescribed as required during this process.

 What distinguishes New Vision Pain Management from other pain management clinics?

At New Vision, we utilize a sophisticated form of electroanalgesia (like TENS, but way more effective and sophisticated) as a replacement for steroids. This strategy as three major effects: 1) We are able to treat neuropathic pain very effectively (such as the pain of diabetic neuropathy and shingles); 2) we believe that the effects of the blocks will last far longer than with steroids; and 3) all steroid side effects are avoided completely.

What is the electric stimulation treatment?

The electric treatment, or electroanalgesia, is a highly sophisticated electric signal delivered transcutaneously (through the skin) without needles. All patients find the sensation quite pleasant since the current dose is adjusted to each patient individually. Usually, as you progress through the protocol and your pain improves, more current is required and programs are advanced. The risk of these treatments is virtually zero.

How is the successful treatment of neuropathic pain accomplished?

We utilize a protocol which involves 3 – 6 injections combined with 10 – 15 treatments with the electroanalgesia device. Prior to the start of the blocks, the patient is asked to commit to this protocol which requires three visits to the office per week.

Does every patient have to be in “the protocol”?

No. In the cases where diagnostic blocks are being performed to determine the source of the pain, standard pain management visit by visit guidelines are always followed. At New Vision, we vow that we will never do any more blocks than are absolutely necessary.

Where are these procedures performed?

All procedures are performed in the office, which is much more convenient for the patient. Dr. Odell was initially trained as an anesthesiologist, so all safety measures that you might associated with a Hospital Outpatient Department (HOPD) or Surgicenter (SC) have been taken. However, the hassles of registration and having to travel to a separate facility are completely avoided.

How qualified is Dr. Odell’s to perform these invasive procedures?

Dr. Odell was initially trained as an anesthesiologist in the 1980s, a specialty he has been practicing for over 25 years. Beginning in 2001, Dr. Odell began training through the auspice of the International Spine Intervention Society, probably the most highly regarded pain management group in the nation (and world). Over the past two years, Dr. Odell has become Board Certified by the American Board of Pain Medicine and is a Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice (FIPP), sponsored by the World Institute of Pain.

Will my insurance cover my treatments and injections?

At New Vision, we accept most insurances, which cover most treatments and injections. My assistant will go over all the details – i.e. deductibles and copays well in advance of any treatments so you will have full details.

Are these procedures painful?

For most patients, the procedures are tolerated very well. All of us have varying pain thresholds, and some patients may require some preop Valium. Dr. Odell discusses this issue with each patient prior to starting the block series, and each patient’s care plan is individualized.

Do I need to bring anyone with me when I will be having a procedure done?

For maximum safety, we require that patients having any of the neuraxial blocks (epidurals, medial branch blocks, etc.) have a driver. In this manner, the patient can be safely sedated (by taking preop Valium). Soon we will also be offering sedation during the actual procedure.