A superior cluneal nerve block is a procedure to manage pain in the lower back and upper buttocks, often due to nerve entrapment or neuritis. This nerve from the lower back affects the skin over the upper buttocks and lower back. When irritated, it causes chronic pain, worsening with activities like sitting or bending.

The pain is located about 7 cm from the midline of the back, extending along the iliac crest above the sacroiliac joint, and may mimic sciatica. The procedure involves injecting anesthetic, sometimes with a steroid, near the nerve to numb the area, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance ensures precise needle placement. Occasionally, two diagnostic blocks confirm the diagnosis.

This procedure can relieve pain but has risks, including infection, bleeding, temporary numbness, or, rarely, nerve damage. Alternatives include physical therapy and medications. For severe cases, peripheral nerve stimulation or spinal cord stimulation might be considered. Other options are radiofrequency ablation to disable nerve fibers or cryoneuroablation to freeze the nerve. Before the procedure, current pain levels are assessed.

Post-injection, numbness can occur, with pain relief lasting from hours to months, depending on the treatment purpose. You should track and report changes in pain levels. Repeated injections or additional therapies, like physical therapy, may be needed for sustained relief.