FAQs

What types of pain conditions do you treat?

Interventional Pain Management Services specializes in treating a wide range of chronic pain conditions including lower back pain, neck pain, knee pain, neuropathy, sciatica, fibromyalgia, herniated discs, and spondylosis. Our experienced physicians use advanced imaging techniques to precisely target pain sources and provide effective relief.

What are interventional pain management procedures?

Interventional pain management procedures are minimally invasive treatments that use advanced imaging technology to guide precise injections or other techniques directly to the source of pain. These procedures often provide faster relief than conservative treatments and help patients avoid surgery.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, Interventional Pain Management Services accepts most major insurance plans. Please call our office at (314) 830-2600 for St. Louis or (618) 288-8905 for Granite City to verify your specific coverage and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.

How long does it take to see results from pain management treatment?

The timeline for pain relief varies depending on your condition and the treatment approach. Some patients experience significant relief within days of a procedure, while others may notice gradual improvement over weeks. Dr. Gunapooti will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation based on your specific situation.

Are your procedures safe?

Yes, our interventional procedures are among the safest pain management options available. We use X-ray guided imaging to ensure precise placement of medications and techniques, minimizing risks. Our experienced team follows strict safety protocols and can discuss any concerns during your pre-appointment consultation.

What should I expect during my first visit?

During your first visit, you’ll meet with our team, discuss your pain history and symptoms, and undergo a thorough evaluation. Dr. Gunapooti will perform a physical examination and review any imaging results. We’ll then discuss treatment options and answer all your questions before recommending a personalized treatment plan.

Can I have pain management treatment if I’m on blood thinners?

Some blood-thinning medications may require special consideration before certain procedures. It’s important to inform our office about all medications you’re taking during your initial consultation. We can work with you and your primary care physician to determine the safest approach for your treatment.

How often will I need pain management treatments?

The frequency of treatments depends on your condition and response to therapy. Some patients benefit from a single procedure, while others may need periodic follow-up treatments to maintain pain relief. Dr. Gunapooti will develop a customized treatment schedule based on your individual needs and progress.

What conditions cause chronic neck pain?

Chronic neck pain can result from various causes including muscle strain, poor posture, arthritis, cervical radiculopathy, disc problems, whiplash injuries, and other degenerative conditions. Advanced imaging helps us identify the exact source of your pain so we can target treatment effectively.

Is treatment available for nerve pain?

Yes, we treat various types of nerve pain including neuropathy, sciatica, and other nerve-related conditions. Interventional techniques like selective nerve root blocks and radiofrequency lesioning are highly effective for reducing nerve pain and restoring function.

Do you offer non-surgical options for disc problems?

Absolutely. We offer several minimally invasive, non-surgical treatments for disc-related pain including percutaneous disc decompression, epidural steroid injections, and other procedures. Surgery is only considered when conservative and interventional approaches have been exhausted.

Can pain management help with arthritis pain?

Yes, interventional pain management procedures are very effective for arthritis-related pain in the spine, knees, and other joints. Targeted injections and other techniques can significantly reduce inflammation and pain while improving mobility and quality of life.

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (neuromodulation) is an advanced procedure where a small device sends gentle electrical impulses to the spinal cord, effectively blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. It’s a proven treatment option for patients who haven’t found relief with other methods.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can request an appointment online through our website, call our St. Louis office at (314) 830-2600, or contact our Granite City office at (618) 288-8905. Our team will work with you to find a convenient appointment time and answer any questions you have.

Do you treat new patients?

Yes, we welcome new patients! We understand that chronic pain affects your daily life, and we’re committed to providing compassionate, expert care. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to help restore your quality of life.

What insurance companies do you work with?

We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance. Since coverage varies by plan, we recommend calling our office to verify your coverage and understand any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.

Are there any activities I should avoid before treatment?

Pre-treatment instructions vary depending on the specific procedure you’ll be receiving. Our office will provide you with detailed pre-appointment instructions, which may include dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, or activity limitations. Please follow these carefully to ensure the safest and most effective treatment.

What happens after my pain management procedure?

After your procedure, you’ll rest briefly in our recovery area while our team monitors you. Most patients can return home the same day with minimal downtime. We’ll provide detailed post-treatment instructions and discuss what to expect regarding pain relief and recovery. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled as needed.