Peripheral Nerve Blocks Specialist

What are peripheral nerves?

The peripheral nervous system is composed of 43 motor and sensory nerves that connect the body to the spinal cord and brain. They control the functions of movement, motor coordination, and sensation. If these nerves become damaged or stop functioning properly, they can cause pain, tingling, or numbness called peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a variety of conditions including:

• Alcoholism
• Autoimmune diseases
• Medications
• Trauma
• Diabetes
• Vitamin deficiencies

What is a peripheral nerve block?

Peripheral nerve blocks can be both diagnostic and therapeutic. Your doctor will target the specific nerve that is likely causing the pain.  The anesthetic medication alleviates nerve pain rapidly while the steroid medicine reduces inflammation and can provide long lasting relief. The steroid medication can take 2-3 days up to a week to fully work. Your initial response to the injection can provide useful information regarding the location of your pain.

If you receive temporary relief from the nerve block, but no long-term relief, then peripheral nerve stimulation could be an option for you as determine by your doctor.