The Vertex Blog

Knee pain can affect every aspect of daily life, from walking and climbing stairs to getting a good night’s sleep. Whether caused by arthritis, an injury, or inflammation, effective treatment can make a world of difference. Joint injections are one of the most trusted, non-surgical options for relieving pain and restoring mobility. Understanding Joint Injections Joint injections deliver medication directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing. These minimally invasive treatments are often used when conservative methods—like rest, exercise, or over-the-counter pain relievers—are no longer effective. Types of

Chronic pain can be life-changing, limiting your ability to move, work, and enjoy daily activities. If conventional treatments haven’t provided relief, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may offer the solution you’ve been searching for. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our specialists provide advanced spinal cord stimulation therapy designed to reduce pain and restore quality of life. Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small device to send electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals interrupt pain messages before they reach the

Migraines are more than just headaches—they are complex neurological events that affect millions of people worldwide. Understanding the stages of a migraine can help you recognize symptoms early and seek timely treatment. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in diagnosing and managing migraines using evidence-based therapies designed to reduce pain and prevent recurrence. Understanding Migraines A migraine is a recurring type of headache that often causes throbbing or pulsing pain, typically on one side of the head. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or

Living with hip arthritis can make everyday activities like walking, bending, or even sleeping uncomfortable. Fortunately, advanced pain management and orthopedic treatments can help reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. At Vertex Pain Physicians, our specialists in San Antonio offer comprehensive and personalized care to help patients find lasting relief from hip arthritis pain. Understanding Hip Arthritis Hip arthritis occurs when the cartilage cushioning the hip joint wears down over time, leading to stiffness, pain, and limited motion. It can result from age-related wear, previous injury, autoimmune disease, or

Hip pain can make it difficult to walk, exercise, or even sit comfortably. Whether caused by injury, arthritis, or age-related wear and tear, chronic hip discomfort can impact your mobility and quality of life. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hip pain through personalized, non-surgical, and minimally invasive methods designed to help you move freely again. Understanding Hip Pain and Its Common Causes Hip pain can stem from several underlying conditions. Identifying the cause is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Common causes include: Osteoarthritis

Back pain can make everyday life difficult—whether it’s a sharp pain after an injury or ongoing discomfort from a chronic condition. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we understand that every patient’s pain journey is unique. That’s why we provide a variety of treatment options tailored to your specific needs and insurance coverage, helping you access effective care without financial stress. Understanding Back Pain and Its Causes Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the United States. It can result from poor posture, injuries, aging, or spinal

Back pain can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible. Whether it’s a dull ache or chronic discomfort, it can affect your daily life, sleep, and emotional well-being. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our mission is to help patients achieve long-term relief using safe and effective non-surgical back pain treatments. Our specialists focus on identifying the root cause of your pain and providing solutions that restore mobility and improve your quality of life—without surgery. Understanding the Causes of Back Pain Back pain can develop for various reasons, from muscle strain

Chronic muscle pain can affect your daily life, making even simple movements uncomfortable. For many patients, trigger point injections provide fast and lasting relief from pain caused by muscle knots, tension, or spasms. In San Antonio, this treatment is a popular choice for people struggling with pain that doesn’t respond to physical therapy or medications. What Are Trigger Points? Trigger points are tight bands or knots in the muscles that can cause pain locally or refer discomfort to other areas of the body. These points often form due to muscle overuse, poor

Chronic pain can limit your ability to work, sleep, and enjoy daily activities. When conservative treatments fail, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers an effective alternative. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our specialists provide advanced spinal cord stimulator therapy to help patients manage long-term pain. Understanding the differences between traditional and rechargeable spinal cord stimulators can help you make an informed decision about your care. What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation? Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a small device to deliver mild electrical pulses to the spinal

Sciatica can cause sharp, radiating pain that travels from the lower back down to the legs, making daily activities difficult. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our goal is to help you find lasting relief. One of the most effective non-surgical treatments we offer for sciatica pain is the epidural steroid injection (ESI), designed to target inflammation and provide long-term comfort. Understanding Sciatica and Its Impact Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve runs from the lower spine through the hips and down each leg. Conditions

Lower back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people, and it can vary greatly in intensity, type, and duration. Whether you experience sharp, stabbing pain or dull, aching discomfort, understanding the difference and knowing when to seek medical help is essential. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating back pain with a personalized approach to provide relief and improve your quality of life. Sharp Lower Back Pain vs Dull Lower Back Pain The type of pain you experience in your lower back can

A pinched nerve, also known as radiculopathy, occurs when pressure is placed on a nerve root as it exits the spinal cord. This pressure can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness, and even weakness. Pinched nerves are common in the neck (cervical radiculopathy) and lower back (lumbar radiculopathy), but they can affect any area of the spine. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating radiculopathy with advanced, non-surgical methods to help relieve pain and restore mobility. Pinched Nerve Symptoms Pinched nerve symptoms can

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common but often overlooked source of lower back and pelvic pain. Located where the spine connects to the pelvis, the sacroiliac (SI) joints play an important role in supporting body weight and enabling movement. When these joints become inflamed or irritated, they can cause significant discomfort and affect mobility. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in identifying the causes of SI joint pain and providing effective, non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Causes of Sacroiliac Joint Pain There are several reasons why

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, often interfering with work, sleep, and daily activities. When conservative treatments such as medications or physical therapy fail to provide relief, epidural steroid injections may be considered. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our specialists offer spinal injection therapy as a minimally invasive option for patients struggling with persistent back pain. What Are Epidural Steroid Injections? Epidural steroid injections involve administering anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerves. The goal is to

Arthritis, often referred to as degenerative joint disease, is a common cause of chronic pain that impacts millions worldwide. The stiffness and inflammation it brings can make daily activities like walking, bending, or sitting difficult and uncomfortable. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we provide advanced, non-surgical treatments for arthritis and joint pain. Our goal is to reduce discomfort, restore mobility, and help patients regain their quality of life. Understanding Arthritis Arthritis is not a single disease but a group of conditions that cause joint inflammation and pain. The most common types

Living with chronic back pain can be life-altering, and one condition that often contributes to this discomfort is facet joint syndrome. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we specialize in diagnosing and treating this condition with a patient-first approach, focusing on effective non-surgical options to help you regain your quality of life. What Is Facet Joint Syndrome? Facet joint syndrome occurs when the small joints that connect the bones of your spine, known as facet joints, become inflamed or arthritic. These joints are essential for stability and movement, but when they

Living with sciatica can be overwhelming, especially when the pain disrupts your daily activities. Many people describe it as a sharp, shooting pain that starts in the lower back and radiates down one or both legs. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, we understand how challenging this condition can be and are committed to providing non-surgical treatments that bring real relief. What is Sciatica? Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in your body. It runs from the lower back,

Living with chronic pain can be overwhelming, affecting both physical and mental well-being. Whether caused by conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, or nerve damage, managing chronic pain requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just medication. While professional treatment plays an important role, certain daily habits can significantly contribute to pain relief and recovery. Adopting these habits as part of your routine can help manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. In this article, we will explore several daily habits that support chronic pain relief and

Pain can be one of the most challenging aspects of medical conditions, injuries, or post-surgical recovery. While medications can help manage pain, sometimes a more targeted approach is needed. This is where a nerve block comes in. It’s a highly effective, non-surgical procedure that can help relieve pain at its source by targeting the nerves causing discomfort. In this article, we’ll explain what a nerve block is, how it works, and when it may be used to treat pain. Whether you're experiencing chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or dealing with an

Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain and hip pain are two of the most common causes of discomfort in the lower body. Both can lead to significant mobility issues, but their causes, symptoms, and treatment options can differ. It's important to distinguish between the two, as this will influence the approach to diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between sacroiliac joint pain and hip pain, how to identify each, and how they can be effectively managed. What is Sacroiliac Joint Pain? The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the sacrum (the

Musculoskeletal pain affects millions of people each year and can significantly impact daily activities, from walking and exercising to sitting at a desk. Whether it’s due to sports injuries, arthritis, back pain, or general wear and tear, musculoskeletal pain can be debilitating. Thankfully, at Vertex Pain Physicians, we offer a range of effective treatments designed to alleviate musculoskeletal pain and help you get back to your regular activities without the need for invasive procedures. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common musculoskeletal pain conditions and how our team

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), also known as osteoarthritis, is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and disability, particularly in older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones breaks down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joints. While DJD can affect any joint in the body, it is most commonly seen in the hips, knees, hands, and spine. In this article, we will explore what degenerative joint disease is, its causes and symptoms, and the various treatment options

Spinal stenosis is a condition that involves the narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves traveling through the spine. This narrowing can occur in different areas of the spine, leading to symptoms that can affect your back, neck, and limbs. It is most commonly seen in the lower back and neck, causing significant discomfort and affecting daily activities. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for spinal stenosis, along with the various relief options available to help manage

As people age, many experience chronic pain due to conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. Managing pain in older adults is crucial to maintaining quality of life, independence, and overall health. While traditional pain management methods often involve medications or invasive surgeries, minimally invasive pain management treatments have become increasingly popular due to their effectiveness and reduced risks. These methods provide non-surgical pain relief, allowing older adults to continue living active, healthy lives. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of minimally invasive pain management for seniors,

Vertebral fractures, particularly those caused by osteoporosis, can lead to severe pain, loss of height, and a diminished quality of life. These fractures often occur in the spine’s vertebrae, which are the bones that make up the spine. One of the most effective ways to treat these fractures is through a minimally invasive procedure called Balloon Kyphoplasty. This procedure not only provides pain relief but also helps restore vertebral height and improve mobility. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Balloon Kyphoplasty, its role in vertebral fracture treatment,

Cancer can cause significant physical and emotional challenges, and one of the most difficult aspects of dealing with cancer is managing pain. Cancer-related pain is a common issue, affecting many patients at different stages of their illness. While surgery and other invasive treatments may be necessary for certain cases, there are also a variety of non-surgical and non-invasive approaches to help manage and alleviate cancer pain. This article will explore effective cancer pain management strategies, including pain relief therapies, palliative care, and various other methods that can significantly improve the

Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications, and one of the most challenging for patients is diabetic neuropathy. This condition involves nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels over time, leading to persistent pain, numbness, and tingling, particularly in the hands and feet. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is an innovative treatment option that can help relieve nerve pain caused by diabetes and other forms of nerve damage. In this article, we’ll explore how PNS therapy works, how it can treat diabetic neuropathy, and why it may be a

Living with chronic pain is challenging enough, but when mental health issues such as stress and anxiety are added into the mix, it can make the experience even more overwhelming. Research has shown that there is a strong connection between stress, anxiety, and the intensity of chronic pain. Understanding how these factors influence pain levels can help individuals find more effective strategies for pain management. This article explores the connection between stress, anxiety, and chronic pain, and offers practical methods for managing both to improve overall health and well-being. Stress and

Chronic pain is a complex and often overwhelming condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether due to injury, disease, or an ongoing condition, the impact of chronic pain can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of life. When traditional treatments fall short, many patients turn to a multi-disciplinary approach to pain management. This comprehensive strategy combines different therapies and expert perspectives to provide more effective pain relief. In this article, we’ll explore why this approach works and how it can benefit those living with chronic pain. What is Multi-Disciplinary Pain Management? Multi-disciplinary

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that affect the body’s muscles and soft tissues. Those living with fibromyalgia often face daily challenges, as the condition can significantly impact their quality of life. While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, it can be managed effectively without resorting to surgery. In this blog, we will explore what fibromyalgia is, its symptoms, and non-surgical treatment options available for managing pain and improving daily function. What is Fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that causes widespread pain

Undergoing spine surgery can be life-changing, especially when the pain relief is significant, but the journey to full recovery can also bring challenges. Post-surgical back pain is common and may persist for some time after surgery. However, with the right approach, patients can manage pain effectively and enjoy a smoother, quicker recovery. This article will explore different strategies for managing pain after spine surgery and offer practical solutions to aid in back pain recovery. What is Post-Surgical Back Pain? Post-surgical back pain refers to the pain patients experience after undergoing spine surgery.

Chronic pain, especially when caused by conditions like spinal pain, cancer, or neuropathic disorders, can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Traditional pain management methods often involve oral medications or systemic treatments, which may have limited effectiveness and side effects. However, Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems (IDDS) provide an advanced approach for targeted pain relief, delivering medication directly to the spinal cord to treat pain more efficiently. In this article, we will explore how intrathecal systems work, their benefits, and how they offer a solution for individuals suffering from chronic

Neuropathic pain can be one of the most challenging types of pain to treat, often arising from nerve damage or dysfunction. For those living with chronic pain conditions like neuropathy, finding effective solutions can feel daunting. One promising treatment option that has been gaining attention for neuropathic pain management is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS). This article will delve into how PNS works, how it helps alleviate chronic neuropathic pain, and the benefits it can offer to patients. What is Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)? Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved pain

Are joint pain and stiffness limiting your ability to stay active or get through the day? Arthritis may be the cause—but surgery isn’t your only option. Joint injections offer targeted relief for inflammation and pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint-related conditions. These minimally invasive treatments can reduce symptoms, improve mobility, and delay or avoid the need for surgery. In this blog, we’ll explore how joint injections work, their benefits, and when it’s time to consult an arthritis specialist. 1. What Are Joint Injections? Joint injections are a non-surgical treatment that involves

Are migraine headaches taking a toll on your daily life, making even the simplest activities unbearable? More than just a severe headache, migraines are a neurological condition that can disrupt your brain, nervous system, and overall well-being. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in diagnosing the root causes of migraines and providing effective treatments tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you achieve long-term relief and restore your quality of life. 1. What Are Migraines? Migraines are intense, recurring headaches that can cause debilitating pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and

Chronic pain is more than just an inconvenience—it can significantly affect your daily activities, mood, and overall quality of life. For many individuals suffering from muscle-related pain, finding lasting relief can feel like an ongoing challenge. Trigger point injections have become a trusted and effective treatment option for managing chronic pain, offering targeted relief where it’s needed most. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in providing advanced, non-surgical solutions for chronic pain management, including trigger point injections. This guide explores how these injections work, the conditions they treat, and why they

Is lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) slowing you down, making simple tasks like walking or standing painful? You're not alone—many adults face these challenges, but surgery isn't always necessary. The mild® procedure (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) is a non-surgical solution designed to relieve pressure on your spinal nerves, improve mobility, and restore function. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in this minimally invasive approach that offers lasting relief with minimal recovery time. What Is the mild® Procedure? The mild® (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) procedure is an FDA-cleared outpatient treatment designed to relieve pain caused

Chronic back and leg pain can significantly disrupt your daily life, making even simple tasks feel challenging. Epidural injections offer a highly effective solution to address pain at its source, providing targeted relief and helping you regain mobility. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in using epidural injections to alleviate pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. Here’s an overview of how these injections work and the benefits they can offer for long-term pain management. What Are Epidural Injections? Epidural injections are a non-surgical treatment option used

Persistent leg or back pain might be more than just strain — it could be sciatica. This condition, caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, often results in pain, numbness, or weakness that limits your mobility. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we focus on non-surgical treatments designed to relieve pain and restore function, helping you return to daily activities with confidence. In this guide, we’ll outline effective non-invasive options and when to seek help from a sciatica specialist in San Antonio. Understanding Sciatica Sciatica isn’t a diagnosis but a symptom of underlying spinal conditions

Is your back pain holding you back from work, sleep, or daily movement? A herniated disc may be the cause, but surgery isn’t always the solution. A herniated disc can lead to persistent discomfort, often radiating pain through the neck, back, or limbs. Fortunately, with the right approach, many individuals find lasting relief through non-surgical treatments. In this blog, we’ll explore how herniated discs are diagnosed, discuss the most effective non-invasive treatment options, and help you understand when it’s time to consult a herniated disc specialist in San Antonio. What Is a Herniated

Don’t let chronic pain silently take over your life. When left untreated, it can gradually intensify—leading to long-term physical limitations, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. Conditions like back pain, herniated discs, and fibromyalgia can escalate, causing lasting damage. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we emphasize early, personalized intervention. Our non-surgical treatments are designed to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further complications—without relying on long-term medication. The Importance of Early Pain Management Chronic pain lasts more than three months and can result from injuries or degenerative diseases. If left untreated, it can

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a multifaceted condition that goes beyond physical discomfort. It can lead to a cycle of sleep disturbances, mood changes, and exacerbated pain. Conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic back or neck pain not only interfere with daily tasks but also disrupt sleep and negatively impact emotional well-being. As pain prevents restful sleep, the lack of quality sleep often heightens pain sensitivity, creating a challenging cycle to break. In this guide, we’ll explore how chronic musculoskeletal pain disrupts sleep and mood, why it can be so difficult to

Chronic muscle pain is a common issue for many people, impacting daily life, work, and overall well-being. One effective treatment to address the root cause of muscle tension is Trigger Point Injections (TPIs). This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting medication into hyperirritable spots in the muscles—known as trigger points—to restore relief, improve mobility, and ease discomfort. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at what trigger points are, how TPIs work, who can benefit from them, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. What Are Trigger Points and

Diabetic neuropathy is a complex and progressive nerve condition resulting from prolonged elevated blood glucose levels. It most commonly affects the legs and feet, leading to burning pain, numbness, tingling sensations, and loss of muscle strength or coordination. For many, these symptoms disrupt not just daily routines, but overall quality of life. At Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio, our focus is on interventional solutions that target the source of neuropathic pain, supporting long-term function, relief, and improved patient outcomes without the pitfalls of ongoing drug therapy. Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy Diabetic neuropathy is

Undergoing back surgery is often seen as the final step toward relief from chronic pain—but for many patients, the journey doesn’t end there. In some cases, individuals continue to experience discomfort or even new pain after surgery, a condition commonly referred to as post-surgical back pain or failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). If you're seeking post-surgical back pain treatment in San Antonio, this guide explains everything you need to know—what causes it, how it’s treated, and the services available at Vertex Pain, one of the most trusted pain clinics in the

Sacroiliac joint injections are a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for lower back pain that originates from the sacroiliac (SI) joint. The SI joint connects the spine to the pelvis and plays a crucial role in weight-bearing and movement. When inflamed or dysfunctional, it can cause significant pain that radiates to the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. SI joint injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication and local anesthetics directly into the joint to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve mobility. Who Can Benefit from SI Joint Injections? SI joint injections are recommended for individuals experiencing: Chronic

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an advanced, non-opioid treatment designed to manage chronic back pain by delivering mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain, providing long-term relief for patients who have not responded to conventional treatments. Who Can Benefit from Spinal Cord Stimulation? SCS is recommended for patients experiencing: Chronic Back Pain: Particularly for individuals who have not found relief with medications, injections, or physical therapy. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS): Persistent pain despite one or more spinal surgeries. Neuropathic Pain: Pain due to

Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) commonly caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer. The procedure helps stabilize the spine, reduce pain, and restore vertebral height, ultimately improving mobility and quality of life. Who Needs Balloon Kyphoplasty? Balloon Kyphoplasty is recommended for individuals who experience: Osteoporosis-related spinal fractures – A common cause of vertebral compression fractures in older adults. Severe back pain due to vertebral compression fractures – Persistent pain that affects daily activities and quality of life. Reduced spinal mobility – Difficulty bending, standing, or walking

Lower back pain is one of the most common medical conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. Whether it’s caused by poor posture, an injury, or a degenerative condition, finding effective relief is crucial for improving quality of life. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments offer effective solutions without the risks of invasive procedures. If you’re searching for back pain treatment in San Antonio, this guide will explore the best non-surgical treatments available at Vertex Pain Physicians to help you regain mobility and live pain-free. What Causes Lower Back Pain? Before diving into treatment options, it’s essential

Chronic pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to perform daily activities and diminishing your quality of life. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in providing advanced, minimally invasive pain management solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you suffer from back pain, sciatica, arthritis, or post-surgical pain, our team of expert pain management doctors in San Antonio is dedicated to helping you find long-term relief. What Conditions Do We Treat at Vertex Pain Physicians? We specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of pain-related conditions, including: 1. Spine & Back Pain