Nerve Blocks

A nerve block is a medical procedure involving an injection of anesthetic medication close to specific nerves in the body. Guided by imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, the medication is carefully administered around the targeted nerves. This action temporarily disrupts the nerve signals, effectively blocking the transmission of pain sensations from the treated area.

This procedure is employed to alleviate a wide range of painful conditions. Common issues treated with nerve blocks include persistent back and neck pain, sciatica (nerve pain radiating down the leg), migraine headaches, and complex regional pain syndrome, a chronic pain condition that can affect any part of the body, often an arm or a leg.

Patients can experience several benefits from nerve blocks. The primary advantage is often rapid and significant pain relief. Additionally, the injected medication can help to decrease inflammation in the affected area. In some cases, nerve blocks can also serve a diagnostic purpose, helping healthcare providers pinpoint the exact source of a patient’s pain.