Peripheral nerve blocks are performed by injecting a local anesthetic near the nerve (or nerves) that control sensation and movement in a particular area of the body. The injection will temporarily numb the area.
Peripheral nerve blocks are normally performed for surgeries of the upper and lower extremities or for surgeries occurring around the neck area. It gives an alternative to general anesthesia, and in some cases, for patients with different medical issues, these nerve blocks are considered safer than general or spinal anesthesia.
Nerve blocks don’t cure or treat any underlying condition, but they can provide pain relief. Nerve blocks are a type of interventional pain management that reduces pain by “blocking” your nerve’s ability to send pain messages to your brain.
Benefits of a Peripheral Nerve Block
Nerve blocks work by targeting a specific nerve (or nerve cluster) that’s sending pain signals to the brain. If you’ve tried conservative pain management options (such as physical therapy, injections, or rest) with little to no relief, then you might benefit from a nerve block.
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Headaches and migraines
Peripheral nerve blocks are performed by injecting a local anesthetic near the nerve (or nerves) that control sensation and movement in a particular area of the body. The injection will temporarily numb the area. Peripheral nerve blocks aren’t necessarily a standalone treatment. For example, once the nerve block reduces your pain, your doctor at the Pain Institute of Georgia may recommend physical therapy as well.