Nerve root block

A selective nerve root block (SNRB) is an injection of anesthesia and steroids into or near a nerve as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for pain. The use of local anesthetic serves to immediately numb the nerve pain (neuralgia), while the steroids can reduce inflammation and temporarily decrease and/or resolve pain.

Blocks are often used to help doctors figure out exactly where damaged nerves are located. If the pain is relieved after a particular nerve site is injected, it’s safe to assume that nerve was causing the problem. A nerve root block is not an epidural steroid injection, which is injected into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord; instead, an SNRB is injected outside the epidural space, at the root of the nerve as it exits the spinal canal through the intervertebral foramen (the natural passageway created by two stacked vertebrae). The use of a live X-ray, or fluoroscopy, allows the doctor performing the procedure to see the exact site of injection in real time.

Uses

Spinal nerve compression due to a bulging or herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other condition, can cause pain and inflammation of the nerve, as well as numbness, weakness, muscle spasms, pain and tingling in the extremities. Open back or neck surgery for the treatment of a spinal condition may require large incisions, a hospital stay, and an extended recovery period. A nerve root block, which requires only an injection, may be an attractive alternative to surgery.

Risks

There are some rare but possible risks to be aware of before receiving a nerve root block injection. Slight internal bleeding, infection at the site of injection, and allergic reaction to the drugs administered are all possibilities. In unusual cases, more damage to the nerve may occur as a result of the needle injection. It is recommended that a nerve root block treatment is limited to several injections per year.

Side Effects

A few side effects may be felt following a block injection, including numbness along the path of the nerve, muscle weakness, and some pain at the injection site. Use of an ice pack for a few days often will help this localized irritation. Symptomatic pain might improve immediately, although it may take two to three days for the steroids to take effect.

Laser Spine Institute

If a nerve root block has not relieved you of pain, contact Laser Spine Institute for a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan. Our orthopedic experts are highly skilled in our progressive endoscopic techniques and we’ve successfully helped tens of thousands of patients rediscover their lives without back and neck pain.