A medial branch block is a procedure designed to relieve pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back by targeting the medial branch nerves, which carry pain signals from the facet joints of the spine. When these joints become inflamed or arthritic, they can cause chronic pain, often due to conditions like osteoarthritis or previous spinal injury.

The procedure involves injecting a small amount of local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid, near these nerves under imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, to ensure precise placement. Once the anesthetic takes effect, it temporarily disrupts the pain signal, which helps diagnose the exact source of pain. If the procedure is successful, patients often feel immediate relief, confirming that the facet joints are the source of pain.

This relief can last anywhere from a few hours to days, giving doctors important information on whether further treatments, like radiofrequency ablation, might be effective.

Patients need to prepare by fasting for about six hours before the procedure if sedation is planned. It's also important to avoid certain medications like blood thinners under medical advice. Post-procedure, you might feel temporary numbness or weakness in the targeted area, and you should avoid strenuous activities for at least a day.

Alternatives to a medial branch block include physical therapy to improve posture and strengthen supporting muscles, anti-inflammatory medications, or in some cases, spinal surgery if other treatments fail. Risks are generally low but can include infection, bleeding, or temporary increases in pain.

Overall, this procedure plays a crucial role in managing chronic spinal pain by helping diagnose the root cause and offering potential relief. It's often a step toward more definitive treatments, like radiofrequency ablation, providing longer-term pain control by disrupting nerve function for months.