Nerve Blocks

What are nerve blocks?

A nerve block is an interventional pain management technique that uses an anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medicine to turn off or stop a pain signal. Dr. Taimoorazy provides nerve block injections, sometimes using X-rays or CT scans, to target specific nerves. 

Some of the available nerve blocks include:

• Trigeminal nerve block
• Medial branch block
• Stellate ganglion block
• Occipital nerve block
• Peripheral nerve block
• Selective nerve root block

Nerve blocks can reduce inflammation that’s compressing a nerve or numb a nerve to stop pain signals. 

Why would I need a nerve block?

At Beverly Hills Migraine and Pain Management Institute, Dr. Taimoorazy includes nerve blocks in treatment plans for conditions including back pain, neck pain, sciatica, and arthritis. 

Depending on your situation, he might also recommend a nerve block for headaches and migraines. 

What happens during a nerve block?

A nerve block is a relatively quick outpatient procedure. Dr. Taimoorazy prepares you for the injection by cleaning your skin and providing a local anesthetic. 

Then, when you’re ready, he inserts the needle until it’s close to the affected nerve. He might use fluoroscopy or an ultrasound to ensure the correct placement of the injection. When the needle is in the precise location, Dr. Taimoorazy injects the medication. 

The injection itself only takes a few minutes. You might need more than one injection to address your pain.

What should I expect after a nerve block?

In most cases, you spend up to a half-hour resting after your nerve block. You might have almost immediate pain relief, or the medication might need 24-48 hours to take effect. 

A friend or family member should drive you home, but in most cases, you can return to most of your regular activities right away. 

Dr. Taimoorazy often includes nerve blocks in multidisciplinary treatment plans. He might recommend that you participate in physical therapy once your nerve block has relieved your pain.

Call Beverly Hills Migraine and Pain Management Institute or make an appointment online today if you live with chronic pain and want to know more about nerve blocks.