25 Feb Nerve Blocks: How They Work for Pain Relief
Nerve blocks are a targeted way to manage pain by interrupting the signals that travel from specific nerves to your brain. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, learning about this procedure might help you decide whether it’s a good option.
What Are Nerve Blocks?
A nerve block is an injection of medication that often includes a combination of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory drugs administered near a specific nerve or group of nerves. The goal is to block or reduce the signals that cause pain in a certain area of your body, such as your neck, back, or legs.
Types of Nerve Blocks
• Facet Joint Nerve Blocks: Target the small joints in the spine that can cause back or neck pain.
• Sympathetic Nerve Blocks: Focus on nerves in the sympathetic nervous system, which can help control pain from certain conditions like complex regional pain syndrome.
• Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Address pain in specific limbs (e.g., arm or leg) by injecting medication near the affected nerve.
How Do Nerve Blocks Relieve Pain?
When a nerve is irritated or inflamed, it sends continuous pain signals to your brain. By injecting medication near that nerve, a nerve block can lower inflammation and numb the area. This decrease in pain can allow you to do physical therapy or daily activities more comfortably, which can support recovery efforts.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Preparation
• Your doctor will review your medical history and may order imaging scans (like an MRI) to pinpoint the best area for the injection.
• On the day of the procedure, you might be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand. - Positioning and Anesthesia
• You’ll lie or sit in a position that allows easy access to the injection site.
• A local anesthetic is usually applied to minimize discomfort when the needle is inserted. - Injection
• With the help of imaging guidance (like an X-ray), your doctor will place the needle near the affected nerve.
• Medication is injected to reduce inflammation and block pain signals. - Post-Procedure
• Some people feel immediate relief, while others notice improvements over the next few days.
• Mild soreness at the injection site is common but generally resolves quickly.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Many patients experience significant pain reduction that can last for weeks or even months. This relief can make exercising, sleeping better, and enjoying daily routines easier. However, nerve blocks don’t guarantee pain-free living for everyone. Possible side effects include temporary numbness or weakness in the treated area, slight bleeding, or an infection in very rare cases. Talk with your doctor about any concerns, and let them know if you have specific health issues that could raise these risks.
When to Consider a Nerve Block
A nerve block could be the next step when medications and physical therapy haven’t eased your pain. People dealing with chronic pain from arthritis, sciatica, or injuries often see nerve blocks as a helpful part of their overall plan. A specialist can determine if a single treatment or a series of injections is best for your situation.
Take the Next Step
If you’re in Plano, TX, and want to learn more about how a nerve block might benefit you, we’re here to help. Feel free to call us at 972-316-7270 or schedule an appointment online. With the right approach, you can take meaningful steps toward managing your pain and getting back to the activities you enjoy.