A femoral nerve block is a procedure that relieves chronic pain in the front thigh and knee by blocking signals from the femoral nerve. It’s useful for conditions like nerve entrapment, chronic knee pain after surgery, severe arthritis, complex regional pain syndrome, or pain from past injuries. It can reduce muscle spasms and improve mobility.

During the procedure, a needle is guided near the femoral nerve, usually with ultrasound. The injection contains local anesthetics for quick relief and steroids or medications for longer effects. This method benefits chronic pain not well-managed by therapy or medication, may reduce long-term opioid use, and improve function.

Besides pain management, femoral nerve blocks are used for surgery anesthesia, like ACL repair or knee replacement, reducing the need for general anesthesia and its side effects. They aid knee manipulation when motion is restricted post-surgery by numbing the area and helping with movement and scar tissue breakdown.

While generally safe, risks include temporary leg weakness, bruising, infection, or rare nerve irritation. Temporary muscle weakness may require using a cane after the procedure. Numbness lasts 16 to 24 hours, so avoid weight on the leg until it wears off. If relief occurs, the treatment can be repeated as part of a pain management plan with physical therapy or bracing.

If chronic thigh or knee pain affects your activities or you need motion recovery post-surgery, ask your provider if a femoral nerve block could help you.