Selective Nerve Root Block Injections

A selective nerve root block involves the injection of steroids and anesthetic near where the nerve root exits the spinal column. Selective nerve root blocks serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

This type of injection is aimed at reducing pain and inflammation caused by pressure on nerves, which often results from conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative changes in the vertebrae, or other spinal abnormalities like scoliosis.

The steroids used in this procedure inhibit the action of enzymes responsible for causing neural irritation and pain. They also work to block specific fibers within the nerves that are responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain and decrease the permeability of these nerve fibers to ions, effectively reducing pain signals.

This block not only reduces inflammation but also diminishes the pain signals being transmitted by the targeted nerve, offering significant relief to the patient.

While both selective nerve root blocks and epidural steroid injections are used to manage pain and inflammation associated with spinal conditions, their applications and purposes differ significantly.

A selective nerve root block is generally used for diagnostic purposes to confirm that a specific nerve root is the source of pain and discomfort. This procedure involves the injection of medication directly next to the spinal nerve that is suspected to be causing the symptoms, following a targeted approach under X-ray guidance.

There are several therapeutic circumstances under which selective nerve root block injections may be utilized, such as to treat an inflamed nerve root that is caused by degenerative changes in the vertebrae causing nerve compression, herniated disc, conditions such as scoliosis, or more. Any of these conditions can lead to a pinching of the nerve due to mechanical compression resulting in pain and limited functionality.

In contrast, an epidural steroid injection involves the delivery of medication into the epidural space and is used more for broader therapeutic purposes. These injections are often employed to manage widespread spinal issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica, especially when first-line treatments such as oral steroids, physical therapy, and rest have not provided sufficient relief.

For nerve block procedures, including selective nerve root blocks, patients at Global Neuro & Spine Institute may receive a mild sedative to help them relax during the procedure.

However, they remain awake throughout. This level of sedation allows patients to be comfortable yet conscious enough to provide feedback during the procedure, which can assist in the precise placement of the block.

In some cases, multiple nerve blocks will be utilized if a provider at Global Neuro & Spine Institute suspects more than one nerve is responsible for the pain.

After receiving a nerve block injection, it’s generally recommended that patients rest for at least a day or so to allow the effects of the medication to fully develop and to avoid exacerbating any residual pain.

The specific duration of rest can vary depending on the individual’s overall health, the exact nature of their condition, and their response to the injection. Typically, patients can resume their normal activities within a few days of treatment.

Global Neuro & Spine Institute advises patients to follow specific aftercare instructions, which often include limiting physical activities like lifting, bending, and prolonged sitting to ensure proper healing and to maximize the therapeutic benefits of the injection.

While nerve blocks are typically intended for temporary relief some patients will experience their benefits for weeks, months, or even years.

Selective nerve root block injections are available at Global Neuro & Spine Institute. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Orlando FL, Conway FL, Edgewood FL, Jensen Beach FL, Ocean Breeze FL, Rio FL, Palm Bay FL, Melbourne FL, Atlantis FL, Palm Springs FL, Boynton Beach FL, Fort Pierce FL, White City FL, St Lucie FL, Plantation FL, Pine Island Ridge FL, Lauderhill FL, Winter Park FL, Bertha FL, Alafaya FL and surrounding areas.