Nerve block treatment involves injecting medication around a nerve or group of nerves. The purpose of a nerve block is to interrupt the pain signals sent to the brain. Doing so can reduce or eliminate pain in a specific area of the body. Nerve blocks can help manage chronic pain, postoperative pain, and pain from certain medical conditions.
There are many different types of nerve blocks, but the two main ones include:
Peripheral Nerve Blocks
Peripheral nerve blocks target the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, including the limbs. These nerves play a crucial role in transmitting pain signals to the brain, as well as providing sensation and movement. By injecting a local anesthetic near these nerves, a peripheral nerve block can effectively numb the targeted area, reducing or eliminating pain.
This type of nerve block is commonly used during surgeries on the arms, legs, hands, or feet to provide pain relief during and after the procedure. It is also a valuable tool for managing various types of chronic pain, including pain in the head, shoulders, arms, abdomen, knees, and legs.
Medial Branch Block
A medial branch block (MBB) is a diagnostic procedure used to identify pain stemming from the facet joints in the spine. This procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic around the medial branch nerves, which transmit pain signals from these joints. By temporarily numbing these nerves, the MBB can help determine if the facet joints are the source of neck or back pain. Typically, two MBBs are performed to confirm eligibility for radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a treatment that can offer pain relief lasting 6 to 12 months. MBBs can be administered in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine; however, insurance coverage for thoracic MBBs may vary.
The Benefits Of Nerve Block Treatment
Nerve block treatments offer various benefits for anyone with pain caused by a medical condition. Here are some key benefits of nerve block treatments:
- Pain Relief and Management: Nerve blocks reduce or eliminate pain by interrupting the body’s pain signals. This can provide significant relief for both acute and chronic pain conditions.
- Improved Mobility and Quality of Life: By alleviating pain, nerve blocks can enhance mobility. As a result, individuals can engage more fully in everyday activities, leading to an improved quality of life.
- Targeted Treatment: Nerve blocks offer a focused approach to pain management. They target the specific nerves responsible for the pain.
How The Treatment Targets And Relieves Pain
Nerve blocks interrupt the pain signals sent from specific nerves to the brain. Here’s how they target and alleviate pain caused by medical conditions:
- Targeting Specific Nerves: Nerve blocks target nerves or groups of nerves that transmit pain signals from a specific area of the body. By focusing on these specific nerves, the treatment can block pain in the targeted region.
- Injection of Anesthetic or Medication: A local anesthetic is injected around the targeted nerve. It is often combined with anti-inflammatory medication. The anesthetic temporarily numbs the nerve, preventing it from sending pain signals to the brain. The anti-inflammatory medication helps reduce any inflammation around the nerve, further alleviating pain.
- Blocking Pain Signals: By numbing the nerve, the nerve block stops the brain from transmitting pain signals. This results in reduced or eliminated pain in the area served by the targeted nerve.
- Types of Conditions Treated: Nerve blocks can treat different conditions that cause pain, such as:
- Chronic Pain Conditions: Conditions like CRPS, arthritis, and chronic pancreatitis
- Postoperative Pain: Pain following surgical procedures, especially in the limbs
- Injury-related Pain: Pain from nerve injuries or other trauma
- Cancer Pain: Pain associated with tumors pressing on nerves or other structures
- Duration of Relief: The pain relief from a nerve block can vary in duration. When used with only a local anesthetic for diagnostic purposes, relief is typically short-acting, lasting a few hours to a day.
Who Is An Ideal Candidate For This Type Of Procedure?
Nerve block treatments can benefit anyone who has not found relief through other pain management methods. Ideal candidates for this procedure include the following:
- Patients who do not Respond to Oral Medication: Many people take oral medications when they begin experiencing pain. However, such medications tend to only mask the symptoms. This means they don’t address the underlying issue. Additionally, they can only provide so much relief. Although you could take stronger medications, doing so can be risky.
- Patients who do not Find Relief with Rest and Physical Therapy: Rest and physical therapy may not always be enough to provide pain relief. If this is the case, you may want to consider nerve blocks.
- Individuals with Chronic Pain Conditions: Chronic pain can be quite severe, and – depending on what’s causing it – it can be persistent. Nerve blocks can help provide relief from such chronic pain.
- Postoperative Pain Patients: People who undergo surgical procedures sometimes experience “postoperative pain.” This can be caused by any number of issues, from tissue damage and inflammation to nerve damage. Nerve blocks can help manage such postoperative pain, especially if you’re experiencing it in your limbs.
- Cancer Pain Patients: When tumors develop, they can press on the nerves, causing pain. Nerve blocks can help cancer patients achieve better pain control.
What To Expect On Your Nerve Block Injection Appointment
Knowing what to expect from a nerve block injection can make the procedure less stressful. It helps you prepare better, understand the procedure, and give informed consent. It sets realistic expectations and encourages better cooperation during the appointment. Patients can also ask relevant questions and communicate any concerns. Additionally, being aware of post-procedure care can lead to better results and a quicker recovery.
Before The Appointment
- Consultation With Your Doctor: Discuss your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. They will also go over the specifics of the nerve block injection procedure.
- Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will need to perform a thorough medical evaluation. Such an evaluation will ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. This evaluation may include imaging tests, blood tests, and a review of any current medications.
- Fasting Guidelines: Fasting is typically required only if sedation is planned for your procedure. If so, your doctor may advise you to avoid eating or drinking for a specific time before your appointment.
- Discussion of Pain Management Plan: Talk with your doctor about your pain management plan. This includes what to expect during and after the procedure and any medications you may need.
During The Procedure
- Pre-procedure Preparation: They will check your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. These vital signs will indicate whether you’re ready for the procedure.
- Sedation: Depending on the nerve block used, you may receive mild sedation to help you relax. This is not always necessary, but it can make the procedure more comfortable.
- Positioning for Access: The doctor will position you so they can easily access the injection site. This might involve lying on your back, stomach, or side.
- Imaging Guidance: The doctor will use imaging techniques to locate the target nerve. This may include ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
- Medication Injection: After numbing the skin and subcutaneous tissue with a local anesthetic, the doctor will inject medication into the target nerve. You may feel brief pressure or mild discomfort during this process.
- Duration of Treatment: The actual injection will only take about a minute. However, the entire procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour.
- Monitoring: You will be monitored for a short period following the injection. This is done to ensure there are no immediate side effects and that you are comfortable before leaving.
After The Treatment
- Immediate Post-procedure Care: You will be observed for side effects following the procedure. The medical team will check your vital signs. Then, they will provide instructions on how to care for the injection site.
- Pain and Discomfort Management: Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site is normal. Your doctor may suggest using ice to reduce swelling and relieve pain; avoid applying heat for the first 24-48 hours. If needed, an over-the-counter pain reliever or a prescribed medication may also be recommended to help manage any lingering discomfort.
- Activity Restrictions: You may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a day or two. This helps ensure proper healing and effectiveness of the nerve block.
- Follow-up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress. They will adjust your treatment plan if necessary. These visits are crucial for assessing the nerve block’s effectiveness.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments: Your doctor may recommend lifestyle or dietary changes to support your recovery and health. These changes can include exercise, weight management, or nutritional adjustments.
- Long-Term Pain Management: Discuss long-term pain management strategies with your doctor. This might involve additional nerve blocks or other treatments for managing chronic pain.
Conditions Treated At NextPain Care With Nerve Block
At NextPain Care we use nerve block treatments to manage various painful conditions. These treatments target specific nerves to provide relief and improve function. Here are some of the conditions that we can treat with nerve block therapy:
