Selective Nerve Root Blocks

Selective Nerve Block is an injection of local anesthesia that targets specific nerve roots to alleviate pain while helping diagnose and treat spine issues. This procedure is used mainly to diagnose nerve root compression. To determine which nerve root is causing the pain, SNRB injections are isolated to various locations along the spine. If the patient's pain dissipates after the injection at a particular nerve root, it can be inferred that the source of pain was being generated at the selected nerve root. Along with acting as a diagnostic tool, SNRBs can also help alleviate the discomfort associated with nerve root compression when used with an injectable steroid.

It takes only a few minutes to administer a selective nerve block. Still, it is recommended to allow an hour for the entire visit, including a pre-operative consultation with the physician and post-operative observation.

What Happens during Selective Nerve Blocks?

We perform selective nerve block by injecting a local anesthetic solution adjacent to vertebral foramina along the spine from the area where nerve roots emerge. Before the block is administered, the site is anesthetized with a local anesthetic.

Patients may feel mild radiating pain as the medication is injected adjacent to the affected nerve root.

What are the Success Rates of Selective Nerve Root Block Injections?

From the studies, the following success rate of selective nerve root block injections has been reported:-

• 57% of patients reported significant improvement in pain and functional outcome at six months in the cervical spine after getting injected once.
• One injection resulted in 46% of patients reporting significant improvement in pain and functional outcome at one year in the lumbar spine.

However, some patients may experience no pain or short-term relief for a few weeks. Sometimes, the therapeutic effect can get delayed by a few days or weeks as the steroid becomes more effective. Usually, the pain-relieving effects of selective nerve root block injections are higher in patients who participate in strengthening exercises and physical therapy.

Post-Operative Care

Patients are advised to avoid operating heavy machinery or driving for at least 24 hours after receiving a selective nerve block. It is recommended that patients rest for a few days following the procedure. One can perform activities within their range without stressing their spine.

Possible Side Effects

There are few side effects of selective nerve blocks. Your arms and legs may feel heavy and numb immediately after the procedure. This is mainly because of the impact of local anesthetic, and it usually wears off within a few hours. Other side effects can include pain at the injection site and headaches. In rare cases, patients experience infection, bleeding, or nerve damage.

Contact Dr Rajesh Malthora if you want help from someone with good experience and an expert in selective nerve root block treatment.