Effect of Intradermal Local Anesthetics on Pain and Functionality Following Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome Type 2

Objective: To examine the effect of intradermal local anesthetic (LA) injection as an adjunct to physical therapy and rehabilitation (PTR) on pain and functionality in patients with persistent spinal pain syndrome type 2 (PSPS-T2). Materials and Methods: A total of 80 patients aged between 18 and 75 years were included and randomized in this prospective, randomized, single-blind study. The first group (n=40) received PTR, while the second group received 3-sessions of intradermal LA injection at painful locations and scar areas in addition to PTR. Patients were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability index (ODI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS), and finger to ground distance. All tools were administered before, immediately after treatment, and 1 month after completion of treatment. Results: The VAS and ODI scores were significantly reduced in both groups and were maintained at the 1-month follow-up visit. The HADS scores and finger to ground distance did not change significantly in either group (p>0.05). Conclusion: PTR was associated with improved pain and functionality in patients with PSPS-T2, with no additional therapeutic contributions from intradermal LA injections.