Nerve blocks are a type of anesthesia that can be used to block pain signals from traveling along certain nerves. This can be done either temporarily or permanently, depending on the type of nerve block used. Nerve blocks are often used as an effective way to provide relief for chronic pain sufferers who have not found relief with other methods, such as medication or physical therapy. There are a few different types of nerve blocks that can be used, depending on the specific condition being treated. Some of the most common types of non-surgical nerve blocks include:
- Epidural nerve blocks: These are the most common type of nerve block, and are typically used to treat pain in the lower back, legs, or pelvis. An epidural needle is inserted into the space around the spinal cord in order to deliver medication directly to the affected area.
- Peripheral Nerve Block: This type of nerve block numbs a specific area of the body by delivering medication to the affected nerves. Peripheral nerve blocks are often used for pain relief in the arms, legs, or hands.
Did You Know?
A group of nerves is called a plexus or ganglion. When a nerve block is injected into a group of nerves, this can block pain to a specific organ and/or region of the body.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for a nerve block?
If you suffer from chronic pain that has not been relieved by other methods, such as medication or physical therapy, you may be a candidate for a nerve block. Nerve blocks can be used to treat a variety of different types of pain, including but not limited to: headaches, migraines, nerve pain, and muscle pain. Nerve blocks are generally considered safe and effective, but they may not be right for everyone. Your doctor will be able to determine if a nerve block is the right treatment option for you based on your specific condition.
What can I expect when getting a nerve block?
The specific procedure for getting a nerve block will vary depending on the type of nerve block being used. However, all nerve blocks involve the insertion of a needle into the affected area in order to deliver medication. A fluoroscopy or ultrasound may also be used to guide the needle to the desired nerve. Nerve blocks are typically performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you will be able to go home the same day. Generally speaking, the procedure takes about 30 minutes.
What can I expect after treatment?
After the procedure is completed, you should start to feel relief from your pain within a few hours. You will need to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours after the procedure. The effects of the nerve block will typically last for six months, depending on the type of nerve block used and how your body metabolizes the medication.
There are a few potential side effects that can occur after getting a nerve block. These side effects include: bruising, tenderness, and numbness at the injection site. Most side effects are minor and will go away on their own within a few days. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as: paralysis, infection, and nerve damage.
Some of the Joint Injections Offered at MVM Health Pain Vein and Wellness includes:
- Peripheral nerve block
- Intercostal Nerve Block
- Lateral Femoral Nerve Injection
- Genitofemoral Nerve Block
- Inguinal Nerve Block
- Genicular Nerve Block (G Block)
- Sphenopalatine Ganglion (SPG) Block (Injection Technique)
- Trigeminal Nerve Block
- Stellate Ganglion Block
- Lumbar Sympathetic Nerve Block
- Medial Branch Block
- Cluneal Nerve Blocks
- Celiac Plexus Block
- Epidural Nerve Blocks
- Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB) in the Cervical and Lumbar Spine
- Hypogastric Plexus Nerve Block
- Pudendal Nerve Block
Looking for Pain Relief?
MVM Health: Pain, Vein, and Wellness services LeHigh Valley, Scranton, Wilkes Barre, and surrounding communities. Reach out to us today to request an appointment.