Sympathetic Nerve Blocks
- Stellate Ganglion Blocks
- Cervical Sympathetic Nerve Blocks
- Lumbar Sympathetic Blocks
- Hypogastric Plexus Blocks
Sympathetic nerve blocks are minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve certain types of chronic nerve pain. These procedures target the sympathetic nerves, which can sometimes send inappropriate signals even when there’s no injury. We carefully inject medication near these nerves to reduce their activity and help ease discomfort. This treatment is commonly used for conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), nerve-related abdominal and pelvic pain, or vascular pain. Many patients find it improves their quality of life by providing relief and helping them move more comfortably.
Because there are sympathetic nerves throughout the body, we can perform these blocks in various locations to specifically target the affected areas:
Cervical Sympathetic Nerve Blocks (also known as Stellate Ganglion Blocks) target pain in the upper extremities.
Lumbar Sympathetic Blocks help control pain and improve circulation in the lower extremities.
Hypogastric Plexus Blocks focus on abdominal and/or pelvic pain.
If you would like to explore if these treatments are right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you find relief and get back to doing what you love!
When to Expect Relief and How Long It Lasts
The local anesthetic starts working right away and reaches its full effect in about 45 minutes. Its relief typically lasts from a few hours to about a day.
The steroid also begins to work quickly, but it can take 3 to 7 days to achieve its maximum effect. Its benefits may last for several months.
Is Sedation Available?
Yes. We offer options tailored to your comfort preferences and medical needs.
These are minor, low risk procedures that typically do not require sedation and can easily be done with just local anesthetic. For those patients who prefer sedation, we offer sedation both in the office and in the surgery center.
Instructions Before the Procedure
1. If you take blood thinners, we will provide detailed instructions on when to stop and restart them.
2. Please let us know if there are any changes to your health, such as a new pregnancy, or if you start antibiotics before your procedure.
3. If you choose sedation in our office, plan for a friend or family member to drive you home afterward. They are welcome to wait in our comfortable waiting area during your procedure, or you can call them when you are ready to leave.
4. If you are going to have sedation in the surgery center or hospital, we will provide additional instructions.
Instructions After the Procedure
Rest and Activity:
- Take it easy on the day of your procedure. You can return to your regular activities the following day.
- Avoid operating heavy or potentially dangerous equipment on the day of your procedure.
- If you had sedation, plan to avoid driving for the rest of the day.
Alcohol: If you received sedation, please skip alcohol for the rest of the day.
Dressings: You can gently remove any adhesive bandages, like Band-Aids®, the day after your procedure.
Blood Thinners: You can restart your blood thinners the day after your procedure unless we have advised you otherwise.
Comfort at the Injection Site: It’s normal to feel some mild discomfort where you received the injection. Applying ice can help ease the soreness—just remember to wrap the ice in a cloth and avoid placing it directly on your skin. Refrain from using heat on the injection site on the day of your procedure.