Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder affecting
million people worldwide. Despite the existence of traditional treatments, some
patients obtain insufficient results, justifying the exploration of new approaches
such as stellar block (SGB).
Link Between Chronic Pain and PTSD
Chronic pain is frequently present in people with PTSD. Research
shows that :
- Prevalence: Up to 57% of patients with chronic pain have
symptoms of PTSD. - Vicious circle: pain intensifies PTSD symptoms (anxiety, hypervigilance),
while PTSD worsens pain perception.
Stellar Block and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A New Approach
What is the Stellar Block?
The stellate block is a medical procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic near the
stellate ganglion, a nerve structure located in the neck. This procedure aims to regulate
the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which is often overactive in people with
PTSD.
Clinical Efficacy
Recent studies show that the stellar block is effective for :
- Reduce PTSD symptoms.
- Improve patients’ quality of life.
- Provide a viable alternative for those who do not respond to conventional treatments.
Results can appear quickly, sometimes after just one or two injections.
Mechanisms of Action
The stellate block works by blocking sympathetic nerve transmission at the
stellate ganglion, a key nerve structure in the regulation of the stress response. This interruption
can calm the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system and reduce PTSD-related symptoms,
such as anxiety, hypervigilance and flashbacks.
Security Profile
Stellar block is a safe procedure, well tolerated by most patients. Complications are rare and minor, making it an attractive option for clinicians and patients seeking non-pharmacological solutions.
“Post-traumatic stress disorder is a normal response to an abnormal event.”
– Dr. Judith Herman psychiatrist and pioneer in the study of trauma, from “Trauma and Recovery”.
“PTSD develops not because of a lack of resilience, but because of an emotional overload that exceeds the brain’s ability to adapt.”
– Dr. Bessel van der Kolk psychiatrist, from “The Body Keeps the Score”.
The use of stellate blocks in the treatment of PTSD is constantly evolving. Future research
aims to:
- Optimize treatment protocols.
- Identify the patients most likely to benefit from this procedure.
- Explore mechanisms to maximize efficiency.
“Traumatic memory is not just a memory of the past, it is a bodily experience that influences the present.”
– Dr. Francine Shapiro creator of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary approach is essential to treat chronic pain and PTSD:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To manage thoughts and behaviors related to pain and trauma.
- Relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation and biofeedback to calm the nervous system.
- Pharmacological management: analgesics, anxiolytics or antidepressants according to the patient’s needs.
- Innovative interventions: Stellar block may be considered to regulate sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity.
Stellar block is a promising advance in the treatment of PTSD. It offers an effective alternative for patients suffering from this debilitating disorder, particularly those for whom traditional treatments are not sufficient. If you or someone you know is affected, consult a healthcare professional to find out more about this innovative treatment option.
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