Lidocaine Infusion Therapy

What are lidocaine infusions?

Lidocaine is a medication traditionally known as a local anesthetic used to numb tissue during minor procedures. However, when administered intravenously in a controlled medical setting, lidocaine can also play a powerful role in managing chronic pain.

Lidocaine infusions involve delivering a carefully monitored dose of lidocaine through an IV over a set period of time. Unlike localized lidocaine injections that target a specific area, intravenous lidocaine works systemically, affecting pain signaling pathways throughout the body. This makes it particularly beneficial for widespread or nerve-related pain conditions such as neuropathy and fibromyalgia.

In addition to IV infusions, targeted lidocaine injections may also be used as part of a comprehensive pain management plan for certain localized pain conditions.

How does lidocaine infusion therapy work?

Chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, often results from abnormal or overactive nerve signaling. Lidocaine works by blocking sodium channels in nerve cells, which are responsible for transmitting pain signals. By stabilizing these nerve membranes and reducing abnormal electrical activity, lidocaine can decrease the intensity and frequency of pain signals sent to the brain.

For patients with neuropathy, lidocaine infusions may help calm irritated or damaged nerves. In fibromyalgia, where central pain processing is believed to be altered, lidocaine may help reduce hypersensitivity and improve pain thresholds. Some patients also report improvements in fatigue, sleep quality, and overall function following treatment.

The effects of lidocaine infusion therapy vary from person to person. Some individuals experience relief shortly after treatment, while others may notice gradual improvement over several sessions.

Am I a candidate for lidocaine infusions?

Lidocaine infusion therapy may be appropriate for individuals with chronic pain that has not adequately responded to medications, physical therapy, or other interventional treatments. It is commonly considered for patients with:

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Post-herpetic neuralgia
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Fibromyalgia
• Other chronic neuropathic pain syndromes

A thorough evaluation is performed prior to treatment. This includes reviewing medical history, current medications, cardiac history, and previous pain management strategies. Because lidocaine can affect heart rhythm in certain individuals, careful screening and monitoring are essential to ensure safety.

Patients with specific cardiac conditions or certain medication interactions may not be ideal candidates, and alternative therapies may be recommended.

What can I expect from lidocaine infusion therapy?

At International Spine Pain & Performance Center, lidocaine infusions are performed in a comfortable, medically supervised setting. An IV is placed, and lidocaine is administered slowly over approximately 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the individualized protocol. Vital signs, including heart rate and blood pressure, are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.

Most patients tolerate the infusion well. Some may experience mild, temporary side effects such as lightheadedness, a metallic taste in the mouth, or mild drowsiness. These effects typically resolve shortly after the infusion is completed.

After treatment, patients are observed briefly before being discharged home. Because mild fatigue can occur, arranging transportation is often recommended for the first session.

Relief may last weeks to months, depending on the condition being treated and individual response. Some patients benefit from a series of infusions spaced over time to maintain pain control. As part of a comprehensive pain management plan, lidocaine infusion therapy can help reduce reliance on opioid medications and support improved daily function.

If you're seeking innovative, non-opioid solutions for chronic pain, neuropathy, or fibromyalgia, call International Spine Pain & Performance Center or request an appointment online today.