Peripheral Nerve Blocks

In certain chronic painful conditions such as occipital headaches, intercostal neuralgia, meralgia paresthetica, limb pain or pelvic pain peripheral nerve blocks are utilized for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Local anesthetic and steroid mixture is injected close to the painful nerve to identify the source of pain, interrupt pain transmission and reduce inflammation. The procedure is usually done under x-ray or ultrasound. Pain relief may last few hours or longer. Peripheral nerve stimulation using a wireless nerve stimulator implant might be an option for permanent pain relief.

Most common nerve blocks

• Occipital nerve blocks for occipital headaches
• Intercostal nerve blocks for chest wall pain
• Dorsal scapular nerve block for upper back pain
• Supra scapular nerve block for shoulder pain
• Illioinguinal and genitofemoral nerve blocks for groin and testicular pain
• Femoral lateral cutaneous nerve block for thigh pain
• Genicular nerve block for knee pain

What are the side effects and complications?

Side effects and complications are uncommon.  Potential complications include:

• Allergic reaction to medication
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Nerve injury
• Temporary arm or leg weakness
• Injection of medication into a blood vessel