Selective Nerve Root Block

colorectal-surgery-la-peer-healthThe physicians at La Peer Health Systems Department of Pain Management believe that no one should have to live with chronic pain. That’s why we’re passionate about offering the most state-of-the-art treatments and procedures for relieving pain.

A selective nerve root block is both a diagnostic and a therapeutic procedure, in that it allows doctors to view the spine using real-time imaging for the purpose of diagnosing the source of chronic nerve pain and treating it. If you’ve been living with chronic pain, we may be able to help. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced pain management physicians by calling 855.360.9119.

CAUSES OF SPINAL NERVE INFLAMMATION

A number of factors can cause spinal nerves to become inflamed, including compression from a damaged disc or contact with a bone spur. Depending on where the inflamed nerves are located, a patient can suffer the pain in various parts of the body.

DIAGNOSING CHRONIC PAIN

If chronic pain is affecting your quality of life, you may want to consider having a selective nerve root block to identify the group of nerves responsible for sending pain signals to the inflamed area.

During the procedure, you will lie face-down on an X-ray table. Your physician will clean the affected area with an antiseptic and then use a type of X-ray called fluoroscopy to view the spine in real time and isolate the source of the pain.

SNRB TREATMENT

Once the physician has located the nerve root, he or she will use a needle to inject anesthetic and/or steroids into the surrounding area in order to reduce inflammation and pain. One of the benefits of spinal nerve root block is that patients should experience immediate pain relief. SNRB is a fast procedure lasting between thirty minutes and one hour to complete.

If you are experiencing chronic pain, selective nerve root block may offer much-needed relief. Don’t hesitate to call our pain management physicians today for a consultation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What are the risks of SNRB?

A: Although SNRB is generally regarded as a safe procedure, patients should be aware of the following small risks: bleeding, infection, nerve injury, localized pain around the injection site.

Q: Will I need to discontinue taking any medications before the procedure?

A: Be sure to tell your physician what medications you are taking before having SNRB. In general, patients must stop taking blood thinners before the procedure.

Q: Will the injection hurt a lot?

A: Some patients experience a minor stinging or burning sensation during the injection. However, the relief of pain after the procedure can be profound.

Q: What will my recovery entail after the procedure?

A: You can go home shortly after having SNRB. Your physician will provide detailed instructions after the procedure, but in most cases you will need to avoid applying heat to the affected area for the remainder of the day. You will also need to arrange for a friend or relative to pick you up after the procedure.

Q: Will I be sore after the injection?

A: Some patients experienced a tender sensation at the injection site. Applying cold compresses or ice packs can help ease your pain.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS

The pain management physicians at La Peer are committed to helping our patients live pain-free. If you’re in pain and want to learn more about selective nerve root block, call 855.360.9119 for a consultation.

Next, read about Piriformis Muscle Injection.