What is hormonal therapy?

Hormones are any member of a class of signaling molecules produced by glands in the body to regulate physiology and behavior. Hormone replacement therapy function to replace the natural hormones that the body no longer makes. Hormones provides many benefits to the body including preventing bone loss and reducing fractures (Osteoporosis). Early loss of hormones are also linked to Sexual Dysfunction, Decrease in Muscle Mass, Heart disease, Death, Parkinson’s-like symptoms (parkinsonism), Anxiety or depression.

It is a well-known fact that chronic opioid therapy (Use of greater than 3 months) is linked to loss of hormones which can also decrease quality of life on top of chronic pain. Our team at Advanced Spine & Pain Interventions provides testing and treatments for our patients on chronic opioid therapy.
Patients are identified through bloodwork submitted by to the lab. Results are obtained within one to two days.
Patients with a history of smoking, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, prostate cancer, blood clots in the legs or lungs, stroke, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding should are not candidates for hormone therapy.

How are Hormones Replaced?

Hormones replacement therapy may be provided through tablets, patches, creams, injectables and pellets.
Most insurances will cover lab test, tablets, patches, creams and injectables.
Pellets provides the most natural hormone replacement with a steady delivery. Unfortunately, Pellets are not covered by Insurance.

Once therapy is started, the blood is tested in 3 months to ensure normal levels
Chronic pain patients with low or depleted hormones will find that once replaced will enjoy a better mood, improved pain control and quality of life.