Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
Diagnosis & Understanding
11. Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
1:46
12. CRPS I
1:57
13. Central Sensitization Syndrome
1:48
14. Neck Pain
1:55
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy
1:35
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
3. Bracing
1:30
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
3. Stellate Ganglion Injection
1:52
4. Lumbar Sympathetic Injection
1:36
Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG)
Diagnosis & Understanding
3. Pelvic and Perineal Pain
1:52
7. Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
1:46
8. CRPS I
1:57
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy
1:35
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
2:08
3. Bracing
1:30
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
3. Lumbar Sympathetic Injection
1:36
Alternative & Emerging Therapies
3. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Lumbar Sympathetic Injection
1746879996
A lumbar sympathetic injection is a procedure designed to relieve pain in the lower back, legs, or feet, particularly from conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or neuropathic pain. This is a sympathetic nerve block that targets the autonomic nervous system, which can contribute to chronic pain, vascular pain, or excessive sweating.
The injection is administered in the lower back, with X-ray or ultrasound guidance ensuring precise placement near the targeted nerve group.
This treatment may reduce chronic leg or foot pain and improve symptoms related to nerve and blood flow disorders. If this injection does not provide enough relief, other options include medications, physical therapy, spinal cord stimulation (SCS), peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), or dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation, depending on the pain source and type.
Risks are low but may include bleeding, infection, or nerve irritation. Temporary soreness, numbness, or hip pain may occur. Before the procedure, inform your doctor if you take blood thinners, have allergies, or are pregnant. Fasting may be required if sedation is needed, and you should arrange for someone to drive you home.
Some patients experience immediate relief, while others may need multiple injections for full effect. Avoid driving or strenuous activities for a day, and follow up with your provider team to assess progress and determine next steps.
Our team is here to help guide you toward the best treatment for your condition.
FAQs
How long does it take to experience relief after a lumbar sympathetic injection, and is it permanent?
Some patients experience immediate pain relief, while others may need multiple injections for optimal effects. The relief provided by a lumbar sympathetic injection is not permanent and may last for weeks or months, depending on the individual case. Follow-up appointments with your provider are important to assess progress and consider additional treatment options if necessary.
How should I prepare for a lumbar sympathetic injection?
Preparation for the procedure may include avoiding blood thinners for 1-2 weeks, informing your doctor of any allergies, pregnancies, or recent infections, and fasting for at least 6 hours if sedation is required. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours.
What are the potential risks and side effects of a lumbar sympathetic injection?
While risks are generally low, potential complications include bleeding, infection, or nerve irritation. Some patients may experience temporary soreness, numbness, or hip pain. More serious but rare risks include tissue damage or sexual dysfunction if injections are performed bilaterally.
What is a lumbar sympathetic injection and what conditions does it treat?
A lumbar sympathetic injection is a procedure that involves injecting medication into a nerve cluster near the lower spine to block pain pathways. It is commonly used to relieve chronic pain in the lower back, legs, or feet due to conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or neuropathic pain, and can also address symptoms like excessive sweating.
What should I expect during a lumbar sympathetic injection procedure?
During the procedure, you will lie on your stomach, and the healthcare provider will use X-ray or ultrasound guidance to ensure precise needle placement. The injection will be administered in your lower back, and sedation may be provided if necessary. The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.