Sympathetic Nerve Block - ALGOS Multispecialty Pain Clinic

Sympathetic Nerve Block

What is a Sympathetic Nerve Block?

A sympathetic nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain related to the sympathetic nervous system. This treatment involves injecting medication near the sympathetic nerves to block pain signals, providing relief from chronic pain conditions.

Common Conditions Treated

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Chronic pain usually affecting an arm or a leg, often following an injury.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Nerve damage causing pain, tingling, or numbness, often in the hands or feet.

Shingles Pain

Postherpetic neuralgia, persistent pain following a shingles infection.

Vascular Pain

Pain resulting from poor blood flow, such as in Raynaud’s disease.

Cancer Pain

Pain related to tumors pressing on or affecting nerve tissue.

Procedure

Preparation

The patient lies on a procedure table, and local anesthesia is applied to numb the injection site.

Guidance

Using fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray) or ultrasound for precise needle placement, the physician inserts a thin needle near the sympathetic nerves.

Injection

A contrast dye is injected to confirm the needle’s position. Then, a mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is administered.

Observation

The needle is removed, and the patient is monitored for a short period before being discharged.

Benefits

Effective Pain Relieff: Targets the source of pain, providing significant and often immediate relief.

Minimally Invasive: Less risk and shorter recovery time compared to surgical interventions.

Diagnostic Value: Helps determine if the sympathetic nerves are the source of pain, guiding further treatment options.

Improved Function: Reduces pain, improving mobility and quality of life.

Risks and Side Effects

Temporary increase in pain

Bleeding or infection at the injection site

Nerve damage (rare)

Allergic reaction to the contrast dye or medication

Temporary numbness or weakness

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate

Patients may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the affected area. Rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours.

Short-Term

Some soreness at the injection site is normal. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers can help.

Long-Term

Pain relief can begin within a few days and may last for several weeks to months. Follow-up treatments may be necessary depending on the condition.

Who Can Benefit?

Patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes may benefit from a superior hypogastric plexus block. It is particularly useful for those with chronic pelvic pain affecting their quality of life.

Conclusion

Superior hypogastric plexus blocks offer a targeted and effective approach to managing chronic pelvic pain. By blocking pain signals at their source, this procedure can significantly improve quality of life and functionality. For personalized care and to determine if a superior hypogastric plexus block is right for you, consult the specialists at ALGOS.

Located centrally on Cunningham Road in Bengaluru, our clinic is easily accessible from all parts of the city, ensuring high-quality pain management services are available to everyone.

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