Top 5 Nerve Block Techniques for Long-Term Pain Relief
Explore five effective nerve block techniques used to treat long-term pain. These procedures involve precise injections guided by imaging techniques to target specific nerves, offering relief for conditions like chronic back, neck, leg, abdominal, and hand pain. Outpatient and minimally invasive, nerve blocks are an essential part of pain management with manageable side effects. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option for your needs.
Top 5 Nerve Block Procedures for Managing Chronic Discomfort
Nerve blocks are a prevalent method for alleviating persistent pain conditions. This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic near the affected nerves, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. Often performed on an outpatient basis, some nerve blocks utilize X-ray guidance, while others do not. Patients should inform their doctor if pregnant or allergic to certain dyes before the procedure. Common nerve blocks used to treat chronic pain include:
Epidural Steroid Injection: Administered in the neck or lower back, this involves injecting anti-inflammatory steroids into the epidural space to reduce inflammation and pain. Usually guided by X-ray, side effects may include temporary soreness and numbness.
Facet Joint Injection: Targeted at the joints facilitating spinal movement in the neck and back, this injection relieves pain and may serve as a diagnostic tool. Soreness at the injection site is common, and successful relief can lead to longer-lasting treatments.
Lumbar Sympathetic Block: Used for chronic leg pain, this X-ray-guided injection causes the affected leg to warm and may produce soreness and numbness.
Celiac Plexus Block: Targeted at the mid-back, this injection addresses abdominal pain, especially in pancreatic cancer patients.
Stellate Ganglion Block: For hand pain, this procedure may cause soreness, drooping eyelids, and swallowing difficulties.
