What Is a Nerve Block?

A nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure involving injecting medication to decrease inflammation and “block” pain signals that are targeted towards a specific nerve or group of nerves to treat pain. Nerve blocks help identify and treat pain, burning and tingling that move from your back to your head, legs or feet.

Causes for a Nerve Block

The main use of a nerve block is to help those who suffer from acute or chronic pain to achieve temporary pain relief. This pain often originates from the spine, but can affect other areas such as the neck, buttocks, legs, and arms. This block allows the damaged nerve time to heal and can be used to diagnose the source of the pain. Nerve blocks are frequently done before surgeries to help control pain after a procedure.

There are many benefits to getting a nerve block, including:

• Temporary pain relief.
• Temporary reduction of inflammation in the nerve causing pain.
• Assists your provider with diagnosing the cause of pain.
• Improve daily function.

How Does a Nerve Block Work?

Prior to your procedure, tell your provider about the medications you are taking, including blood-thinning medications and over-the-counter medications. Talk to your provider about any recent illness or other medical conditions. Do not eat or drink anything for a few hours before your procedure. Inform your provider if you are pregnant or have a possibility of being pregnant.

Using a fluoroscope, your provider will inject the medication as close to the nerve causing the pain as possible. It will then “block” the pain receptors within the nerve or nerves causing the problem.

If you require a nerve block procedure that is close to a major nerve or bundle of nerves, tell your provider immediately if you feel a sudden jolt of pain. Although it is rare, this means the needle has come too close to the major nerve and needs to be repositioned.

What to Expect After a Nerve Block

It is normal to feel sore at the site of injection for a few days. Applying an ice pack and taking medication may help with swelling and pain. You should avoid strenuous activities and driving for at least 24 hours. As the numbing medication wears off, you may feel a slight increase in pain until the medication takes effect. The effects of the injection are almost immediate and pain relief is felt within minutes of injection. It is important to remember that nerve blocks are a temporary pain reliever, usually lasting for a few hours or days. 

While most patients will experience relief, some may need several block procedures before they experience long-term pain relief. Some patients may not feel pain relief from a nerve block, in which case your provider may recommend other forms of treatment.

Risks of a Nerve Block

As with any procedure, a nerve block has risks associated with it. These can include:

• Infection at the injection site.
• Bleeding
• Unexpected delivery of medication into the bloodstream, other nerves, or spinal cord.
• Technical failure.
• Targeting the “wrong” nerve.