Did your doctor recommend a nerve block to provide relief for your chronic pain and now you’re not sure what to expect? It’s understandable to feel uncertain about a procedure that you’ve never experienced before. The idea of an injection near your nerves may sound intimidating. But don’t worry—we’re here to walk you through it so you can feel prepared and confident in your treatment choice.
What is a Nerve Block?
A nerve block is an injection that delivers anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medication near specific nerves to block pain signals.[1] It can be used to diagnose the source of pain or provide longer-lasting relief for conditions like sciatica, arthritis, cancer, CRPS or nerve damage.[1] Some nerve blocks last for a few hours, while others provide relief for weeks or even months.[2]
Nerve blocks or neural blockades are effective solutions that offer a non-surgical, minimally invasive option to manage pain in the head, neck, back, face, and extremities.[1] A targeted nerve block can treat nearly any pain related to nerve damage, irritation, compression or inflammation.
Before Your Nerve Block: How to Prepare
Your doctor will fill you in on what to expect, but for most nerve injections, there’s nothing you really need to do to prepare. If you’re getting sedation, though, you’ll need to fast—no food or drinks—for about six to eight hours beforehand. Make sure you have a ride home after the procedure. Let your doctor know about any medications you’re taking. If you have any questions or specific medical conditions, reviewing them with your provider before your appointment is a good idea.
During Your Procedure: Is it Painful?
The idea of a needle near your nerves may sound unsettling, but the injection itself is usually quick, painless and well-tolerated. Here’s what typically happens, according to the Cleveland Clinic:
- Positioning: You’ll lie down or sit in a position that gives the doctor the best access to the injection site.
- Cleansing & Numbing: The area will be cleaned with an antiseptic, and a local anesthetic may be applied to reduce discomfort.
- Needle Insertion: Using imaging guidance (like ultrasound or fluoroscopy) to ensure accuracy, your doctor will carefully insert a thin needle near the targeted nerve. You might feel a pinch or pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful.
- Medication Injection: Once the needle is in place, the medication is injected. Some people experience temporary tingling or warmth in the area.
The process usually takes less than 30 minutes, and you’ll be monitored for a short time afterward to ensure no immediate side effects.
After Your Neural Blockade: What to Expect
Once the nerve block is done, you may notice immediate numbness or pain relief. However, it can take a few days for the full effects of the injection to kick in, especially if steroids were combined with the analgesic.[3] Here’s what else you should know:
- Post-Procedure Soreness – It’s normal to feel temporary discomfort in the treated area, but it should wear off as the anesthetic fades.[3]
- Pain Relief Duration – The length of relief varies. Some nerve blocks last only a few hours (like those used for surgical anesthesia), while others, particularly those with steroids, can provide relief for weeks or months.[4]
- Recovery Time – You may need to take it easy for a day or two, but most people can resume regular activities quickly.[5] Skip the bathtub for the first 24 hours. Showers are okay, but follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Side Effects – While rare, some people experience mild bruising, soreness, or dizziness. Serious complications are uncommon, but always report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.[2]
Is a Neural Blockade Right For You?
Nerve blocks can be an excellent option for managing pain without relying on long-term medication, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Not everyone responds the same to nerve block injections. You may experience immediate relief or need a series of injections before relief kicks in.[3] If your pain returns or worsens, your doctor may recommend repeat injections or other pain management strategies, such as physical therapy or radiofrequency ablation.
If you’re considering a nerve block, the best step is to discuss it with a pain management specialist. They can help you determine the best treatment for your specific condition.
Getting a nerve block doesn’t have to be scary. With a quick procedure, minimal downtime, and the potential for lasting relief, it’s an excellent option for many people dealing with chronic pain. If you’re still nervous, talk to your doctor about your concerns—they’ll be happy to walk you through it!
Resources:
- Nerve Blocks. Johns Hopkins Medicine [Internet]. Accessed February 27, 2025. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/nerve-blocks
- Nerve Block. Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Accessed February 27, 2025. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/12090-nerve-blocks
- Need a Nerve Block? 4 Things You Should Know. Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Accessed February 27, 2025. Available from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/4-things-you-should-know-about-nerve-blocks
- Regional anesthesia for surgery. The American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) [Internet]. Accessed February 27, 2025. Available from: https://www.asra.com/patient-information/regional-anesthesia
- Sympathetic Nerve Block: What to Expect at Home. My Health Alberta [Internet]. Accessed February 27, 2025. Available from: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abq3714
