How does ketamine help chronic pain?
Ketamine works by calming overactive pain signals in the brain and nervous system. With chronic pain, the body can get stuck in a “pain loop,” where nerves keep firing even after an injury has healed. Ketamine helps interrupt this loop and reset how the brain processes pain. This is why ketamine therapy may help people who have not found relief from traditional pain treatments.
Is ketamine an opioid?
No. Ketamine is not an opioid and works very differently. Opioid medications mainly block pain for short periods and can lose effectiveness over time. Ketamine targets the nervous system itself, helping reduce pain sensitivity rather than just masking symptoms. Because it is not an opioid, ketamine does not carry the same risks of dependence or breathing suppression.
What conditions can ketamine therapy help with?
Ketamine therapy may help a variety of chronic pain conditions, including nerve pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, arthritis-related pain, and pain after surgery or injury. It is often considered when other treatments, such as medications, injections, or physical therapy, have not provided enough relief.
What does a ketamine infusion feel like?
Most patients describe the experience as deeply relaxing. You may feel calm, detached, or slightly floaty during the infusion. Some people experience mild changes in perception, which are temporary and closely monitored by medical staff. The infusion is given in a comfortable, controlled environment, and patients are observed throughout the entire treatment.
How long does pain relief last after ketamine therapy?
Pain relief can vary from person to person. Some patients notice improvement within hours or days, while others experience gradual relief over a series of treatments. Many patients benefit from an initial induction series followed by maintenance infusions as needed. The goal is long-term reduction in pain intensity and improved daily function, not just short-term relief.
