Mode of Action of Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks work by interrupting pain signals sent from the affected nerve to the brain, offering immediate relief from nerve-related pain. The medication reduces swelling around the nerve, allowing it to heal and preventing further pain transmission. Additionally, nerve blocks help ease muscle spasms and improve function, enabling patients to better participate in physical therapy and daily activities.
Nerve Blocks (NOT Spinal)
Therapeutic nerve blocks are a targeted treatment option used to relieve pain, improve function, and reduce symptoms associated with various neurological conditions involving nerve irritation, compression, or entrapment. By precisely injecting medication near the affected nerve, nerve blocks interrupt pain signals, providing lasting relief and enhancing quality of life.
Procedure of Nerve Blocks
Preparation: The area around the target nerve is cleaned, and local anaesthetic may be applied to minimise discomfort.
Ultrasound Guidance: Using advanced ultrasound imaging, a fine needle is carefully guided to the precise location of the nerve for accuracy and safety.
Injection: A small amount of anaesthetic, often combined with corticosteroids, is injected around the nerve to block pain and reduce inflammation.
Monitoring: After the injection, the patient is observed for a short time to monitor the initial response and check for any immediate adverse effects.
Ultrasound guidance ensures the medication is delivered precisely to the source of pain, reducing the risk of complications and maximising treatment effectiveness.
Nerve Blocks for Common Nerve Pain Conditions
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Targets the median nerve at the wrist to relieve numbness, tingling, and inflammation.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Blocks the ulnar nerve at the elbow to reduce pain, tingling, and weakness in the forearm and hand.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Injected around the posterior tibial nerve at the ankle to relieve pain and numbness caused by nerve compression.
Pudendal Neuralgia: Targets the pudendal nerve in the pelvic area to reduce pelvic and genital pain.
Suprascapular Nerve Block: Used for shoulder pain related to rotator cuff injuries and impingement syndrome.
Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Block: Provides relief from thigh pain and burning sensations caused by meralgia paresthetica.
Genicular Nerve Block: Used to treat knee pain from osteoarthritis or post-surgical conditions.
Baxter’s Nerve Block: Targets the lateral plantar nerve to relieve heel pain from nerve entrapment.
Morton’s Neuroma Block: Relieves burning, tingling, and sharp foot pain by targeting nerves between the toes.
Benefits of Nerve Blocks
Targeted Pain Relief: Focused treatment directly on the affected nerve.
Minimally Invasive: Non-surgical with only a small needle injection.
Quick Procedure: Typically fast, with minimal patient downtime.
Diagnostic Aid: Helps identify the source of chronic pain.
Improved Mobility: Pain reduction often leads to better movement and function.