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
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Stellate Ganglion Injection
1746882816
A stellate ganglion injection is a procedure used to manage pain and improve circulation in the neck, head, chest, and upper arms. It involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes with a steroid, near the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the neck. This procedure may help with complex regional pain syndrome, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, shingles-related pain, and blood flow issues like Raynaud’s disease. It is also being explored for PTSD, anxiety, and depression, though research is ongoing.
During the procedure, you’ll lie on your back, and a needle is guided using X-ray or ultrasound for precise placement. You may receive medication to help you relax, and we’ll monitor you closely for about an 30 minutes to an hour afterward. The procedure itself takes less than 30 minutes.
Alternatives to a stellate ganglion injection include physical therapy, medications, nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, or in some cases, surgical interventions. The best option depends on your condition and response to previous treatments.
Before the procedure, let us know if you have an infection or take blood thinners. If sedations is necessary, you should fast for at least 8 hours for solid foods and 2 hours for clear liquids and arrange for someone to drive you home.
Temporary effects like a droopy eyelid or warmth in the arm are common and should go away on their own. Serious risks like infection or nerve damage are rare, but any unusual symptoms should be reported immediately.
Pain relief varies—some patients experience immediate improvement, while others may need follow-up injections for longer-term relief. We’ll work with you to track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
FAQs
How effective is a stellate ganglion injection for pain relief?
Effectiveness can vary; some patients may experience immediate pain relief, while others might require follow-up injections for sustained benefits. The duration of pain relief can range from days to weeks, and your healthcare provider will work with you to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
How is a stellate ganglion injection performed?
The procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid, near the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the neck. It is performed with the patient lying on their back, using X-ray or ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate needle placement. The entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes, followed by a monitoring period of about 30 minutes to an hour.
What are the possible side effects and risks of a stellate ganglion injection?
Temporary side effects such as a droopy eyelid, warmth in the arm, or a stuffy nose are common and usually resolve on their own. Although serious complications like infection, nerve damage, or bleeding are rare, it's important to report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.
What is a stellate ganglion injection used for?
A stellate ganglion injection is primarily used to manage chronic pain and improve circulation in areas such as the neck, head, chest, and upper arms. It addresses conditions like complex regional pain syndrome, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, shingles-related pain, and blood flow issues like Raynaud’s disease. It is also being investigated for its potential benefits in treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression, although more research is needed in these areas.
What should I do to prepare for a stellate ganglion injection?
Before the procedure, inform your doctor if you have any infections or are taking blood thinners. If sedation is required, you should fast for at least 8 hours for solid foods and 2 hours for clear liquids. Additionally, arrange for someone to drive you home afterward, as driving yourself is not recommended post-procedure.