Top 5 Nerve Block Procedures for Managing Chronic Pain

This article reviews five effective nerve block techniques for managing chronic pain, including epidural, facet joint, lumbar sympathetic, celiac plexus, and stellate ganglion blocks. It explains the procedures, benefits, and potential side effects, emphasizing the importance of professional medical guidance for optimal results.

Managing chronic pain often involves nerve blocks, which provide targeted relief by injecting anesthetics near affected areas. These injections disrupt pain signals traveling to the brain, offering significant relief. Most nerve block treatments are outpatient procedures, some guided by X-rays, others performed freely. Before proceeding, inform your doctor if you’re pregnant or allergic to dyes. Common nerve block options include:

Epidural Steroid Injection: Administered in the neck or back, delivering anti-inflammatory steroids into the epidural space to reduce inflammation and pain. Side effects include temporary soreness and numbness which normally resolves within hours.

Facet Joint Injection: Targets joints that facilitate spinal movement, providing pain relief in the neck and back. Guided by X-ray, this diagnostic injection helps determine long-term treatment plans. Soreness at the needle site is common.

Lumbar Sympathetic Block: For chronic leg pain, this X-ray-guided injection causes a warming sensation and temporary numbness in the leg.

Celiac Plexus Block: Used mainly for abdominal pain in pancreatic cancer, this injection relieves discomfort by targeting nerve clusters in the mid-back.

Stellate Ganglion Block: For hand pain, this injection may cause soreness, drooping eyelid, or swallowing difficulty, with pain relief benefits.

Note: These procedures should be performed by qualified healthcare professionals. Always consult a medical expert for diagnosis and treatment options. Side effects are typically mild and temporary.