
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic)
1746879119
A Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic) helps determine if a specific nerve is causing your pain. In this procedure, a doctor injects a numbing medicine, like lidocaine, near the nerve to temporarily block pain signals. This minimally invasive procedure often uses imaging like fluoroscopy or ultrasound for precise targeting. The goal is to see if pain lessens, confirming if the nerve is the pain source. Sometimes, two injections are needed for accurate diagnosis.
This helps identify pain from: - Chronic nerve damage from past injuries or surgeries. - Localized pain in areas like joints or limbs, due to conditions like arthritis. - Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other nerve issues. - It assesses nerves for potential neuromodulation responsiveness. Successful blocks may lead to peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), using an implantable device for long-term pain relief.
If effective, it guides further treatments, such as targeted therapies or medications. Alternatives include imaging tests (MRI, CT) or EMG and nerve conduction studies for nerve and muscle function. Risks are low, including temporary soreness, infection, bleeding, neuritis, nerve damage, and rare allergic reactions. Usually, you don't need to stop blood thinners, but if required, your doctor will advise. If sedation is involved, avoid eating/drinking for up to eight hours before.
After the injection, most return to usual activities in a few hours or by the next day. Pain relief varies from hours to several days, depending on the medication used. It's important to monitor changes in pain and record them to help determine the next treatment steps.
FAQs
How does the procedure of a Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic) work?
During the procedure, a doctor injects a local anesthetic, like lidocaine, near the affected nerve using imaging tools such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound for precise targeting. The aim is to block pain signals, allowing the doctor to assess if the targeted nerve is contributing to the pain.
How should I prepare for a Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic) and what is the recovery like?
Preparation might involve adjusting certain medications, such as temporarily stopping blood thinners. If sedation is involved, fasting for up to eight hours might be necessary. Recovery is usually quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within 24 hours. Pain relief duration depends on the medication used and can last from several hours to days.
What are the risks associated with a Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic)?
The risks are generally low and can include temporary soreness, infection at the injection site, minor bleeding, or nerve irritation. Rarely, there can be allergic reactions or nerve damage. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor.
What conditions can be diagnosed with a Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic)?
This procedure can help diagnose chronic pain arising from nerve damage due to past injuries or surgeries, localized pain in joints or limbs from conditions like arthritis, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), or other nerve-related issues.
What is a Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic) used for?
A Peripheral Nerve Block (Diagnostic) helps determine if a specific nerve is responsible for causing your pain. It involves injecting a numbing medicine near the suspected nerve to block pain signals temporarily, confirming whether the nerve is the source of your pain.