Sympathetic Block Injection

Sympathetic Block Injection - for Chronic Pain

Sympathetic block injections, also called sympathetic nerve blocks, are injections of medications (for example, steroids) around sympathetic nerve roots along the spine to provide temporary relief from chronic pain.

This information will explain what it is, Dr. Singer can determine if it is for you.

Why is a sympathetic block performed? Sympathetic nerve block injections are used to treat pain associated with the sympathetic nervous system, including:

• Vascular pain: Pain that develops when there is a lack of blood flow to tissues or an organ
• Visceral pain: Pain in the organs and structures of the thorax, or the trunk of the body
• Neuropathic pain: Pain that is characterized by a burning or shooting sensation

What is a sympathetic nerve block? These injections are administered into the ganglions, nerve bundles that control the sympathetic nervous system. Ganglions are located along the spine, at the end of each spinal nerve, and extend throughout the body and control involuntary body functions like digestion. The location of the sympathetic nerve block injection will be determined by where the individual's pain is located. Sometimes, sympathetic block injections are administered as a series of injections to provide long-term pain relief.

What are the benefits of a lumbar sympathetic block?

• Pain relief, which may help you function better day to day.
• Reduction of inflammation in the affected nerves, which may help them heal.
• Providing a diagnosis. The block can help Dr. Singer identify a more specific cause of pain.
• It's important to note that not everyone experiences pain relief from sympathetic blocks. You may need to try other treatment options if this is the case.

What happens during sympathetic block? The location of your pain usually determines where you'll receive the nerve block. Your sympathetic nerves come together outside your spine area in thick networks of nerves called ganglions. If you have pain in the upper part of your body, you may get pain relief from blocking the stellate ganglion in your neck area. If you have pain in the lower part of your body, a ganglion near the lower spine may be targeted with a lumbar sympathetic block. After changing into a hospital gown, you will be taken to the procedure room in a wheelchair. An IV will be started and you will be hooked up to the monitor. You will lay on your stomach on the procedure table during the injections. If needed, sedative medication may be given to reduce discomfort. You will be awake during much of the procedure. A local anesthetic will be used to numb your skin. The doctor will then insert a thin needle near the planned injection site. Fluoroscopy, a type of x-ray, must be used to position the needle.

What happens after an injection? You will be free to get re-dressed and check out at the front desk. You must have someone to drive you home. It may help to move in ways that hurt before the injection, to see if the pain is still there, but do not overdo it. Take it easy for the rest of the day. Side effects after a sympathetic block may include short-term (temporary) soreness, a feeling of warmth, or some weakness. If you receive steroid medicine in your injection, you may have side effects. These include temporary increases in blood sugar levels for 1 to 2 days, an allergic reaction, and flushing on your face. You may not be able to have the procedure if you have a high risk of bleeding. That may also be true if you have an infection in the area of the injection. Make sure you have a follow up appointment scheduled in the clinic about 4-6 weeks after your procedure.

This information is for general education only. Specific questions or concerns should always be directed to your doctor. Your doctor can explain possible risks or side effects.