Summary of Procedure: Sympathetic Nerve Block
As many as 40% of people will suffer from sciatica during their lifetime. Sympathetic nerve blocks are minimally invasive injections that help patients alleviate lower back and leg pain due to sciatica, shingles, peripheral neuropathy, and complex regional pain syndrome.
First, IV sedation is used to help the patient relax. Then, a local anesthetic is injected into the lower back to numb the area. X-ray guidance is then utilized as the physician injects a contrast dye to help the physician pinpoint the exact location for treatment.
A long-lasting steroid is then injected into the sympathetic nerves. The patient is then sent to a recovery room for a short time.
Related: Injections for Back Pain in Greenville
What to Expect Post-Procedure of a Sympathetic Nerve Block
Once home, patients are advised to rest for the first 24 hours. Immediately after the procedure, the patient will experience significant pain relief for up to a few hours before pain slowly returns. It is normal to experience some pain during this time, as the local anesthetic is wearing off.
In a few days, the steroid will take effect, giving the patient significant pain relief. Some patients may require a series of injections for additional relief of pain. Patients should contact their physicians immediately if they experience any swelling or redness around the injection site or any signs of infection.
If you’re interested in learning if sympathetic blocks are right for you, call the Carolina Spine and Pain Centers today. We have several offices located throughout South Carolina to best serve you. Get in touch with us by calling 864-808-2995 or by filling out an appointment request form on our contact page.