Nerve Root Blocks
A nerve root block is an injection of local anesthetic and steroid. The procedure is performed under x-ray guidance into the area where the nerve exits the spinal column. A nerve root block is usually ordered by your doctor for pain in the arm or leg that follows the path of a single nerve. A nerve root block may be diagnostic (a test to determine the source of your pain) and/or therapeutic (to relieve your pain). The procedure may result in permanent or temporary relief from pain. If you get a period of sustained pain relief from the injection, the block may be repeated. The block can also be used diagnostically to help identify whether or not surgery might be helpful.
Nerve Root Block Procedure:
An IV may or may not be started at the physician’s discretion. The patient is placed on their stomach on the procedure table and positioned in such a way that the physician can best visualize the bony openings in the spine where the nerve roots exit the spine using x-ray guidance. The skin in the appropriate area is scrubbed using antibacterial soap. Next, the physician numbs a small area of skin with numbing medicine. This medicine stings for several seconds. After the numbing medicine has been given time to be effective, the physician directs a very small needle using x-ray guidance above the nerve root as it leaves the foreman. A small amount of contrast (dye) is injected to ensure proper needle positioning. Then, a small mixture of numbing medicine (local anesthetic) and anti-inflammatory (steroid) is injected.
What happens after the procedure?
There are no restrictions to food or liquid intake or to activity level unless specified by the physician. A follow-up appointment will be made for a repeat block if indicated. These injections are usually done in a series of three, about one month apart. The back or legs may feel weak or numb for a few hours. This does not always happen, but is an expected possible temporary reaction to the procedure. Patients may return to their normal activities on the day of the procedure. Driving is discouraged on the day of the procedure.