What Is a Nerve Block?

A nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure in which a local anesthetic (and sometimes a corticosteroid) is injected near a specific nerve or group of nerves. The goal is to interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain.

Nerve blocks can be used for diagnosis (to identify which nerve is causing pain) or for treatment (to provide temporary or longer-lasting pain relief).

Common types include medial branch blocks (for facet joint pain), selective nerve root blocks, peripheral nerve blocks, and sympathetic blocks. Many are performed with image guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound) for accuracy.

Why Might I Need a Nerve Block?

Your doctor may recommend a nerve block if you have:

• Persistent pain that has not responded adequately to medication, physical therapy, or other conservative care
• Pain believed to come from a specific nerve or joint (such as facet joints in the spine)
• A need to diagnose the exact source of pain before considering longer-term treatments (such as radiofrequency ablation)
• Pain that limits daily activities, sleep, or quality of life

Relief from a nerve block can last from hours to several weeks or longer, depending on the block type and individual response.

How Do I Prepare?

Typical preparation includes:

• Medications: Tell your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners. You may need to stop certain blood thinners for a short period (only as directed).
• Eating & drinking: Most patients can eat and drink normally unless sedation is planned.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the injection area.
• Allergies: Inform the team of any allergies to local anesthetics, steroids, or contrast dye.
• Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation is used or if you prefer not to drive afterward.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

The procedure is usually done in an outpatient setting and typically takes 15–45 minutes.

Typical steps:

1. You are positioned comfortably (often face-down for spine-related blocks). The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
2. The provider uses local anesthetic to numb the skin.
3. Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is carefully advanced near the target nerve.
4. A small amount of contrast dye may be injected to confirm correct needle position.
5. The doctor injects local anesthetic (and sometimes a corticosteroid) around the nerve.
6. The doctor removes the needle and applies a small bandage.

What Should I Do for Aftercare?

Immediate Care

• You will be monitored briefly after the procedure.
• You can usually go home the same day.
• The local anesthetic often provides rapid pain relief that may last several hours.

Activity Guidelines

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
• Gradually return to normal activities as comfort allows.
• If a steroid was included, its anti-inflammatory effect may take 1–3 days (sometimes longer) to fully develop.

What to Expect

• Temporary numbness, weakness, or a “heavy” feeling in the treated area is possible and usually resolves as the anesthetic wears off.
• Keep a simple pain diary if requested — this helps your doctor evaluate the diagnostic value of the block.

What Are the Risks?

Nerve blocks are generally safe when performed by experienced physicians. Possible risks include:

• Temporary increase in pain or soreness at the injection site
• Infection or bleeding (rare)
• Temporary numbness, weakness, or nerve irritation
• Allergic reaction to the medication
• Incomplete or short-lived pain relief

Your physician will discuss the specific risks and benefits for your situation.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the injection site
• Fever
• Severe or worsening pain
• New or prolonged numbness, weakness, or difficulty moving the affected area
• Any other concerning symptoms