Nerve BlocksA nerve block delivers medication as close to an affected nerve as possible under fluoroscopic guidance. Desert Pain Specialists offers several types, including the occipital nerve block, sciatic nerve block, and sphenopalatine ganglion block.The sympathetic nerve block and peripheral nerve block treat conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome, shingles, and neuropathy, and serve both diagnostic and therapeutic roles.
Diagnostic and Targeted BlocksThe medial branch block targets the small nerves that carry facet joint pain and is most often used as the diagnostic step before radiofrequency neurotomy, offered here as radiofrequency ablation.The stellate ganglion block targets sympathetic nerves of the head and neck. Beyond nerve pain, it has also been used for parosmia and anosmia, the distorted or lost sense of smell.Stellate ganglion blocks commonly bring brief expected effects such as a droopy eyelid, a stuffy nose, or a scratchy voice. These are mild, usually last no more than an hour, and carry no long-term consequences.
What to ExpectThe skin is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. Live fluoroscopy, often with contrast dye, confirms needle placement before a sterile mixture of anesthetic and corticosteroid is delivered.Most blocks take only a few minutes. You are observed in our recovery suite before discharge, and light activity and rest are recommended for the first 24 hours.Immediate relief from the anesthetic may wear off after a few hours. Longer-term relief from the steroid takes up to two weeks and typically lasts 3-6 months.
Is This Right for YouNerve blocks treat chronic headaches from inflamed occipital nerves, migraine and facial pain involving the sphenopalatine ganglion, sciatica from herniated discs or degenerative disc disease, and arthritic facet joint pain.Sympathetic and peripheral nerve blocks address complex regional pain syndrome, shingles, peripheral neuropathy, chronic low back or neck pain, and pelvic pain.Because blocks are both diagnostic and therapeutic, relief also tells your physician where your pain originates. Injections may be repeated as needed. The next step is a conversation.
ContactTalk to areal person.Same-day appointments. The front desk answers the phone.
