What Does a Spinal Nerve Root Block Do?

What is a Spinal Nerve Root Block?

A spinal nerve root block is a commonly performed—and perhaps the oldest—minimally invasive spine procedure. A spinal nerve root block stops a nerve from sending pain signals to the brain. First, a mild sedative is given to help the patient relax. Next, the patient is carefully positioned face down on a comfortable table with a special resting place for the head and neck. After the skin is cleaned and sterilized, the following steps complete the procedure:

Needle placement. Fluoroscopic x-rays guidance allows the specialist to place the needle in a perfect position near the nerve.
Injection. Nerve block medication is injected around the nerve creating a numbing effect and calming inflammation.

A small band-aid covers the small needle mark. The patient goes home shortly after the quick 15-30 procedure and usually returns to work and normal activities the following day.

How Long Does a Spinal Nerve Root Block Last?

Symptom relief occurs very quickly, if not immediately. Results may last for many months and are maintained with repeat injections or nonsurgical treatment options.

What Conditions Does a Spinal Nerve Root Block Treat?

A spinal nerve root block may be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Degenerative disc disease.
• Osteoarthritis.
• Spinal stenosis. Narrow spinal canal.
• Herniated disc. Slipped disc.
• Sciatica. Burning pain down the back of the leg.

A spinal nerve root block is indicated when these conditions do not respond to nonsurgical treatment options. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained spine specialists routinely perform spinal nerve root blocks. To find out if the procedure can relieve your pain, please contact our office to make an appointment.