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Therapeutic nerve blocks are precise injections that reduce pain by targeting specific nerves. At Desert Pain Specialists in Rancho Mirage, California, Roland Reinhart, MD, and Meaghan Berglund, PA-C, use advanced imaging guidance to deliver local anesthetics and corticosteroids safely and effectively. Nerve blocks can provide relief for back pain, sciatica, arthritis, and other chronic conditions. Contact Desert Pain Specialists by phone or request one online to schedule a nerve block therapy consultation.
Therapeutic Nerve Blocks Q & A
What are therapeutic nerve blocks?
A therapeutic nerve block is an injection of medication near specific nerves to reduce pain. By preventing pain messages from reaching the brain, nerve blocks can provide significant relief and help patients move more comfortably.
Nerve blocks usually contain a local anesthetic, which numbs the nerve, and sometimes a corticosteroid, which reduces inflammation around the nerve. Together, these medications provide both immediate and longer-lasting relief.
What conditions can therapeutic nerve blocks treat?
The Desert Pain Specialists team uses therapeutic nerve blocks to manage many types of pain, including:
- Chronic back and neck pain
- Sciatica and nerve root irritation
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Arthritis-related joint pain
- Pain after surgery or injury
- Headaches and facial pain
The team specializes in using therapeutic nerve blocks as part of comprehensive pain management plans. By combining precision injections with other advanced treatments, they aim to relieve pain, improve function, and help patients get back to the activities they enjoy.
How are therapeutic nerve blocks performed?
Therapeutic nerve blocks are outpatient treatments. After cleaning your skin, your provider uses a small needle to inject medication near the affected nerve. Desert Pain Specialists has fluoroscopy (moving X-ray) imaging guidance, which they use to ensure accuracy and safety.
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. Complications from therapeutic nerve blocks are uncommon, and most patients tolerate the injections well. Some may notice temporary soreness or numbness at the injection site, but these effects usually fade quickly.
Many patients feel immediate relief from the anesthetic that may last several hours. The steroid medication, when used, may take a few days to start working, but can provide longer-term relief — sometimes weeks or months. Patients can usually return to light activity the same day.
How often can I have a therapeutic nerve block?
The frequency at which you receive therapeutic nerve blocks depends on your condition and how you respond to treatment. Some people only need one or two injections, while others may benefit from a series over time. Your provider creates a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Call Desert Pain Specialists to inquire about benefiting from therapeutic nerve blocks or use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation today.