Thompson Health and Sports Medicine is now offering the innovative Iovera Treatment to patients at their six locations. Iovera is a new treatment for muscle pain that works by introducing cold to a peripheral nerve. This cold therapy stops nerves from transmitting pain signals to the brain and promotes nerve regeneration. Approved by the FDA, Iovera is safe and effective and has been shown to block pain and improve patients’ quality of life.
How does Iovera work?
Nerves in the body respond naturally to cold by temporarily stopping pain signals. Iovera takes advantage of this natural response to treat peripheral nerves and reduce pain instantly without the use drugs. Nerve function returns to normal after time; this temporary treatment gives them a chance to regenerate and restore normal function while blocking pain. During an Iovera treatment, cold is applied to a specific nerve, providing significant pain relief.
Effects of Iovera
Patients who receive Iovera enjoy immediate results. As soon as cold is applied to a specific nerve, it interrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain, resulting in immediate relief. This pain relief will last until the nerve regenerates; how long this takes depends on several factors including the location of the nerve and the individual’s response to treatment.
Typically, nerve regeneration takes place at a rate of about 1mm per day. It is important to note that Iovera, while highly effective, is a temporary pain relief treatment that does not treat or cure the underlying condition causing the pain. It is useful before and after knee surgery and in other situations where pain relief is needed.
What Patients Can Expect
Before receiving Iovera treatment, your physician will discuss your individual needs with you, including any medications you take, your health history, and any medical conditions you have. There is little preparation required other than wearing loose clothing; general anesthesia is not needed. Most patients enjoy an immediate reduction in pain, and there is little to no downtime.
You will likely be able to resume your normal daily activities following treatment and even drive yourself home after the procedure. Any side effects are mild and include soreness or bruising at the treatment site. Ice and over-the- counter pain medications can help with any tenderness; ask your provider about these options. Following your doctor’s instructions, return to more strenuous activities gradually to keep exertion levels and joint stress within safe levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight and obtaining any recommended treatments such as physical therapy can maximize your long-term outcome.
About Thompson Health and Sports Medicine
Thompson Health and Sports Medicine offers a multidisciplinary approach to each patient. With a wide range of services and modern techniques, they focus on working together with their patients to determine the best personalized treatment plan.
Their team of chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, and other specialists and locations in Toms River, Lacey, Brick, Manahawkin, Bayville, and Tinton Falls allow them to provide many patients with effective and safe treatments. Contact Thompson Health and Sports Medicine today to find out more about Iovera and how it may be able to help you.