Peripheral Nerve Blocks

The entire body is run by an internal electrical system known as the central and peripheral nervous system. The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord. From these structures arise literally hundreds of miles of small nerves which extend to every millimeter, to every crevice of the human body. This is known as the peripheral nervous system. 

• The central nervous system is well protected by the skull and the vertebrae (bones in the back and neck).


• The peripheral nervous system is not protected and is vulnerable to injury by trauma, toxins, and mechanical injuries.

When any part of the peripheral nervous system becomes injured or irritated, inflammation occurs at the nerve region, causing localized and sometimes radiating pain. These injuries are not usually well managed with oral medications.



When oral medications and heat and ice fail to alleviate the pain, your physician may elect to perform an injection into the painful region. This is known as a peripheral nerve block and is performed in the office. The injection is usually painless and may or may not have an anti-inflammatory or steroid in it. This will be discussed between you and your physician.



Following the procedure, there may some increased discomfort from the procedure. Ice as well as oral NSAIDS such as Motrin, Alleve, Naprosyn may be helpful in alleviating this. This pain and discomfort (if it occurs at all) should last less than 24 hours. Your doctor will follow up with you in the office one week following the procedure.