Nerve Blocks (cont.)
Other Nerve Blocks
Other types of nerve blocks include:
- Sympathetic nerve block:
A sympathetic nerve block is one that is performed to determine if there is
damage to the sympathetic nerve chain. This is a network of nerves extending
the length of the spine. These nerves control some of the involuntary
functions of the body, such as opening and narrowing blood vessels.
- Stellate ganglion block:
This is a type of sympathetic nerve block performed to determine if there is
damage to the sympathetic nerve chain supplying the head, neck, chest or arms
and if it is the source of pain in those areas. Although used mainly as a
diagnostic block, the stellate ganglion block may provide pain relief in
excess of the duration of the anesthetic.
- Facet joint block: Also known as a zygapophysial joint block, the facet joint block is performed to determine whether a facet joint is a source of pain. Facet joints are located on the back of the spine, where one vertebra slightly overlaps another. These joints guide and restrict the spines movement.
Side Effects and Risks of Nerve Blocks
- Elevated blood sugars
- Rash
- Itching
- Weight gain
- Extra energy
- Soreness at the site of injection
- Bleeding
- Death (in rare cases)
Although many kinds of nerve blocks exist, this treatment cannot always be used. If your pain isnt related to pain in a single or small group of nerves, nerve blocks may not be right for you. Your doctor can advise you as to whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Westlake Family Health Center.
Edited by Cynthia Haines, MD, WebMD, August 2004.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 2/3/2005 10:12:33 PM
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