Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks are injections that place medicine near a nerve or group of nerves to help diagnose or relieve pain, including some headache, neck, back and nerve-related symptoms.
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Migraines & Headaches
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Nonsurgical Spine Care & Pain Management
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What Are Nerve Blocks?
Nerve blocks are treatments that deliver medication close to a specific nerve or nerve cluster. The medicine may include a local anesthetic to temporarily numb the area and in some cases an anti-inflammatory medicine to help calm irritation. These treatments may be used to help diagnose the source of pain, provide short-term relief or support a broader care plan.
Depending on the area being treated, nerve blocks may be used for certain headache disorders, neck pain, back pain, facial pain or pain that travels along a nerve. They are not the right option for everyone, but they may help when symptoms are persistent or when a physician needs more information about where pain is coming from.
Why Choose Baptist Health?
At Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, patients have access to physicians who evaluate pain, headache and nerve-related symptoms as part of a larger treatment plan. Care may involve imaging, physical examination, medication management, rehabilitation and other nonsurgical or procedural options when appropriate.
Baptist Health focuses on patient-centered care with attention to clear communication, thoughtful evaluation, and treatment planning based on each person’s symptoms, goals and overall health. When needed, physicians work across specialties to help patients move from diagnosis to treatment with a coordinated approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. A nerve block is a targeted injection placed near a specific nerve or group of nerves. Unlike oral medication, it is designed to work in one area and may also help your physician understand where your pain is coming from.
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They may be used for selected headache, facial pain, neck pain, back pain or nerve-related pain conditions. Examples can include migraine, occipital neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia or pain that radiates along a nerve.
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The duration varies. Some nerve blocks are mainly diagnostic and last a short time, while others may provide relief for longer. The condition being treated, the medication used, and your individual response all affect how long benefits may last.
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Most people feel brief pressure, stinging or discomfort rather than severe pain. The area is typically cleaned carefully, and the procedure is usually quick. Your physician can explain what sensations are most common for the specific type of nerve block you are having.
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Sometimes. Whether you need a driver can depend on the treatment area, medications used and how you feel after the procedure. Your care team will give you instructions before your appointment.
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Nerve blocks are commonly used procedures, but every procedure carries some risk. Possible complications can include bleeding, infection, soreness, temporary numbness, weakness or an incomplete response. Your physician will review risks and benefits based on your health history.
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The next step depends on why the nerve block was done. Your physician may use the results to refine the diagnosis, recommend another type of injection, adjust medications, suggest therapy or discuss other treatment options.
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Call if you have symptoms that concern you, such as increasing pain, fever, redness that spreads, drainage, severe weakness or other unexpected changes. Your discharge instructions should explain what is expected and when urgent evaluation is needed.
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