Nerve Block

A nerve block is an advanced pain management technique that involves injecting anesthetic medication (often combined with corticosteroids) near specific nerves to:
✔ Interrupt pain signals to the brain
✔ Reduce inflammation in targeted areas
✔ Provide diagnostic information about pain sources

Conditions Treated with Nerve Blocks

Nerve blocks effectively manage pain from:

  • Chronic back/neck pain (herniated discs, spinal stenosis)

  • Joint pain (arthritis, bursitis)

  • Neuropathic pain (sciatica, diabetic neuropathy)

  • Cancer-related pain

  • Post-surgical pain

  • Migraine/cluster headaches

Types of Nerve Blocks

1. Peripheral Nerve Blocks

Target nerves outside the spinal cord for:

  • Arm/shoulder pain (brachial plexus block)

  • Leg pain (femoral/sciatic nerve blocks)

  • Facial pain (trigeminal nerve block)

2. Sympathetic Nerve Blocks

Regulate involuntary nervous system functions for:

  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

  • Circulatory problems

  • Certain types of visceral pain

3. Epidural & Spinal Nerve Blocks

Administered near the spine for:

  • Chronic low back pain

  • Labor pain management

  • Postoperative pain control

4. Diagnostic vs. Therapeutic Blocks

  • Diagnostic: Identify exact pain source (short-acting)

  • Therapeutic: Provide longer-term relief (weeks-months)

The Nerve Block Procedure

Before the Procedure

✔ Comprehensive pain evaluation
✔ Review of medical history/allergies
✔ Imaging planning (ultrasound/fluoroscopy)

During the Procedure

  1. Skin cleansing and local anesthetic

  2. Guided needle insertion (imaging-assisted)

  3. Precise medication delivery

  4. Brief monitoring afterward

After the Procedure

  • Immediate pain assessment

  • Possible temporary numbness/weakness

  • Gradual return to normal activities

Benefits of Nerve Blocks

✅ Targeted relief without systemic side effects
✅ Reduced opioid dependence
✅ Improved mobility for physical therapy
✅ Diagnostic clarity for treatment planning
✅ Long-lasting relief (weeks to months)

Potential Risks & Side Effects

  • Temporary numbness/tingling

  • Rare infection or bleeding

  • Allergic reactions (uncommon)

  • Temporary weakness in affected area

What to Expect After Treatment

  • Immediate relief in many cases

  • Peak effect within 1-2 days (for steroid-containing blocks)

  • Duration varies: From days to several months

  • Repeat treatments possible for chronic conditions

Ideal Candidates

Nerve blocks work best for patients with:

  • Localized pain sources

  • Inadequate response to oral medications

  • Need to avoid systemic painkillers

  • Desire to participate more actively in rehabilitation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a nerve block last?
A: From hours (diagnostic) to several months (therapeutic with steroids)

Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: Most patients report only mild discomfort during injection

Q: When will I notice results?
A: Local anesthetics work immediately; steroids may take 1-3 days

Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: Varies by condition – some patients get lasting relief from one block

Q: Are there activity restrictions afterward?
A: Typically just 24 hours of caution if motor nerves were affected

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Hossein Adlkhoo

Hossein Adlkhoo

Pain Medicine

Dr. Hossein Adlkhoo is a distinguished anesthesiologist and pain medicine subspecialist based in Tehran. With advanced training in the United […]

Iran, Tehran
Mahnaz Narimani ZamanAbadi

Mahnaz Narimani ZamanAbadi

Anesthesiologist

Dr. Mahnaz Narimani ZamanAbadi is a leading pain medicine specialist and anesthesiologist in Tehran, combining over 25 years of clinical expertise with academic […]

Iran, Tehran
Maryam Zafarghandi Motlagh

Maryam Zafarghandi Motlagh

Anesthesiologist

Dr. Maryam Zafarghandi is a distinguished pain medicine specialist and anesthesiologist in Tehran, recognized for her expertise in interventional pain techniques and regional anesthesia. A graduate […]

Iran, Tehran