A nerve block or nerve injection is a procedure used to manage pain or diagnose its source by injecting medicine near specific nerves. This prevents pain signals from reaching the brain. The terms "block" and "injection" are used interchangeably.

There are two main types: diagnostic injections, which are temporary and help guide medical decisions, and surgical injections, used for anesthesia during procedures. For both types, the doctor may use landmark techniques or imaging, like ultrasound, to guide the needle for precise placement. Surgical blocks help manage pain around an operation, while diagnostic injections help confirm whether a nerve is the source of pain by temporarily numbing the area for one to six hours.

These procedures can help with post-surgical pain, arthritis, sciatica, migraines, and even certain cancer-related pain. By numbing the nerves, they provide relief from both chronic and acute pain.

Alternatives to nerve blocks include pain medications, physical therapy, or advanced procedures like epidural injections. However, nerve blocks often target pain more directly with fewer side effects than medications like opioids.

As with any procedure, risks include temporary numbness, tingling, infection, or, in rare cases, nerve injury. You may need to avoid certain medications, like blood thinners, but for most peripheral nerve blocks, blood thinners do not need to be stopped. However, sympathetic blocks do require stopping them, so check with your medical team.

Recovery is usually quick, with normal sensation returning within hours. While nerve blocks are mostly used for diagnosis, long-term pain relief may require radiofrequency treatment, hydrodissection, or in some cases, surgery. If you have an active infection or uncontrolled bleeding, this procedure may not be suitable.

A nerve block is a safe and effective way to diagnose and manage pain with fewer side effects than other treatments. We’ll work with you to find the best approach for your condition.