A Sympathetic Nerve Block is a medical procedure where an injection of medication is administered around nerves near the spine. Sympathetic Nerve Blocks can provide temporary pain relief for both acute (sudden and short-term) and chronic (long-term) pain. The injection may help reduce inflammation and allow damaged nerves to heal. If the exact source of pain is unclear, a Sympathetic Nerve Block can help diagnose it. Pain relief after the injection indicates that the targeted nerves are the pain source.
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Q. How is a Sympathetic Nerve Block Performed?
Your Sympathetic Nerve Block will be performed in an outpatient setting. The procedure takes about 30 minutes. A pain management doctor uses imaging technology (such as ultrasound) to guide the placement of the injection. The goal is to deliver the medication directly into the SI joint. Pain reduction from a Sympathetic Nerve Block can also serve as a valuable diagnostic tool. If a patient’s pain improves immediately after the injection, it suggests the SI joint is involved.
Q. What are the benefits and potential risks associated with a Sympathetic Nerve Block?
Sympathetic Nerve Blocks can provide temporary relief from pain. This relief may help you function better in your day-to-day activities. The injection can also temporarily reduce inflammation in the affected nerves which may contribute to the healing process. Sympathetic Nerve Blocks are also used for diagnostic purpose. By observing how your pain responds to the block, your healthcare provider can identify a more specific cause of your pain. Some risk factors associated with the block include possible allergic reaction, muscle weakness, spinal headaches, and in rare cases, a possible nerve injury.