Learn More

At NovaSpine Pain Institute, we are committed to providing advanced pain management techniques to help you achieve a better quality of life. Among the various options we offer are peripheral and sympathetic nerve blocks, designed to alleviate pain by targeting specific nerves in the body. These minimally invasive procedures can effectively treat a range of chronic pain conditions.

Peripheral Nerve Blocks involve the injection of anesthetic or other medications near specific peripheral nerves to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. This technique can be useful for managing pain in various regions, such as:

• Joints
• Arms and hands
• Legs and feet

Sympathetic Nerve Blocks, on the other hand, target the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s “fight or flight” response. These blocks are particularly effective for conditions involving:

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Chronic pain related to trauma or surgery
• Conditions like phantom limb pain

Both types of blocks can offer significant pain relief and improve functionality.

The injections deliver medication directly to the targeted nerve or group of nerves, temporarily interrupting the transmission of pain signals. This can provide immediate pain relief, as well as longer-lasting benefits, depending on the type of medication used. In some cases, a combination of local anesthetics and corticosteroids may be administered to enhance pain relief and reduce inflammation.

1. Preparation: Before the procedure, you will meet with our specialists to discuss your medical history, current medications, and the specifics of your pain. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy may be used to accurately locate the target nerves.

2. Anesthesia: A local anesthetic will be applied to the skin at the injection site to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

3. Needle Placement: Using imaging guidance, the physician will carefully insert a thin needle near the targeted nerve.

4. Injection: Once the needle is correctly positioned, the physician will inject the anesthetic or medication into the area.

5. Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period. Most patients can return to their normal activities the same day, although some may experience mild soreness at the injection site.

• Pain Relief: Many patients report significant pain reduction, allowing them to resume daily activities and improve their quality of life.

• Minimally Invasive: Both procedures are non-surgical and typically involve less risk and shorter recovery times compared to more invasive treatments.

• Diagnostic Insight: Successful pain relief can help confirm the specific source of pain, guiding further treatment options.

• Improved Functionality: By alleviating pain, these blocks can enhance mobility and overall function in affected areas.

Following a nerve block, you may experience:

• Follow-Up Care: Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and discuss additional treatments if necessary.

• Initial Discomfort: Some soreness at the injection site is normal and usually resolves within a few days.

• Variable Pain Relief: Pain relief may occur immediately or take some time to develop. The duration of relief can vary, lasting from weeks to several months.

While peripheral and sympathetic nerve blocks are generally safe, potential risks and side effects may include:

• Infection at the injection site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Allergic reactions to the medication
• Temporary increases in pain
• Rarely, nerve damage

Our specialists will discuss these risks with you during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed before proceeding with the treatment.

• Expert Care: Our board-certified specialists have extensive experience in performing peripheral and sympathetic nerve blocks and managing various pain conditions.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: We understand that each patient’s experience with pain is unique, and our treatment plans are tailored to meet your specific needs.

• Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to recovery, our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and guidance throughout your treatment journey.

If you are suffering from chronic pain and are considering peripheral or sympathetic nerve blocks as a treatment option, contact NovaSpine Pain Institute today to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate team is here to help you explore your options and find a path to lasting relief. Let us work together to help you regain control of your life.