Peripheral Nerve Blocks

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What are Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

Peripheral Nerve Blocks are used for pain originating from a nerve, a condition also known as neuralgia. Nerve injury can be caused by trauma, compression, ischemia, or toxic exposure. A local anesthetic is injected with a steroid to stop pain along the nerve.

How do you prepare for Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

Preparing for peripheral nerve blocks involves several steps to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Prior to your appointment, your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough evaluation of your medical history, current medications, and any allergies or sensitivities you may have. It’s essential to inform your provider about any blood thinners or anticoagulant medications you may be taking, as these may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the procedure to minimize the risk of bleeding. Your healthcare provider will provide specific pre-procedure instructions tailored to your individual needs to ensure the best possible outcome.

Why are Peripheral Nerve Blocks performed?

Peripheral nerve blocks are performed to alleviate pain originating from a specific nerve, a condition known as neuralgia. This type of pain can result from various causes, including trauma, compression, inflammation, or injury to the nerve. Peripheral nerve blocks involve the injection of a local anesthetic, often combined with a corticosteroid medication, directly into the affected nerve or nerve cluster. By temporarily blocking the transmission of pain signals along the nerve pathway, peripheral nerve blocks can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from conditions such as sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia, occipital neuralgia, or peripheral neuropathy.

What can you expect during Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

You may receive sedation or anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Your healthcare provider will cleanse the skin over the targeted area and use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to precisely locate the affected nerve. A thin needle will then be inserted into the targeted nerve, and a combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication will be injected. The entire procedure typically takes just a few minutes to complete, and you can usually resume your normal activities immediately afterward with little to no downtime.

What is the followup and recovery like for Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

The follow-up and recovery process for peripheral nerve blocks are generally minimal, as this procedure is minimally invasive and does not require any significant downtime. After the injection, you may experience some temporary numbness or weakness in the affected area, which should resolve within a few hours as the local anesthetic wears off. You may also experience some mild soreness or bruising at the injection site, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or ice packs. It’s essential to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider, including guidelines for activity restrictions and when to resume normal activities. Your provider may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and determine the effectiveness of the nerve block in relieving your pain.

What are the potential risks for Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

Some risks of peripheral nerve blocks may include temporary discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own within a few days. In few cases, more serious complications such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or allergic reactions to the medication may occur, but these instances are exceedingly rare when the procedure is performed by experienced healthcare providers using appropriate safety protocols. It’s essential to discuss any concerns or pre-existing medical conditions with your healthcare provider before undergoing peripheral nerve blocks to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

Are there related procedures to Peripheral Nerve Blocks?

While peripheral nerve blocks are an effective treatment for localized nerve pain, there are several related procedures and techniques that may complement or enhance their effects. For example, radiofrequency ablation involves the use of heat energy to disrupt pain signals along the nerves, providing longer-lasting relief for certain types of neuralgia. Additionally, neuromodulation therapy, such as spinal cord stimulation or peripheral nerve stimulation, may be considered for individuals with chronic or refractory nerve pain conditions. Your healthcare provider can discuss all available treatment options with you and develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Meet Manhattan Pain Medicne, PLLC

Jason W. Siefferman, MD is board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) and Interventional Pain Medicine. He is trained to offer a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment for anyone experiencing pain or a disability. He has published articles, book chapters, and persuasive essays surrounding many... Learn More »