How Quickly Does Ketamine Work for Chronic Pain?
Ketamine can begin to relieve chronic pain symptoms within hours to a few days after treatment, depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Unlike traditional pain medications that primarily block pain signals, ketamine works by altering how the brain processes pain through the NMDA receptor, which is involved in pain signaling and central sensitization. This helps "reset" nerve pathways that have become hypersensitive, offering fast relief for patients who have struggled with long-standing pain.
For some people, the effects may be felt after the first session, while others may require a few treatments to notice improvement. The speed and degree of relief can vary based on factors like the type of chronic pain, the patient's health history, and the severity of symptoms. While ketamine is not a permanent cure, its rapid action can provide a crucial window of relief, allowing patients to engage more comfortably in physical therapy, daily activities, or other pain management strategies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.
If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to us, and we'll give you all of the info you need to help you decide if ketamine infusions are right for you.
