Selective Nerve Root Blocks For Accident Pain What Are They, What To Expect & How Long They Last

Are you struggling with persistent pain after a recent accident? If so, you’re not alone. The aftermath of an accident can leave lingering discomfort, making it difficult to resume everyday activities.

However, there is hope on the horizon in the form of selective nerve root blocks (SNRBs). These innovative procedures have been gaining attention for their ability to alleviate accident-related pain and help patients regain their quality of life.

Our team at Impact Medical Sun City Center is here to guide you through this groundbreaking treatment option and shed light on its potential to transform your recovery journey. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

What Are Selective Nerve Root Blocks?

Selective nerve root blocks (SNRB) are minimally invasive procedures used to diagnose and treat pain related to nerve compression or irritation. Unlike traditional epidural injections which target a broader area of the spine, SNRB specifically targets the nerves where they exit the spinal column.

By injecting a combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroid medication near the affected nerve root, doctors can pinpoint the source of pain and provide therapeutic relief.

Another distinctive feature of SNRB is its diagnostic capability. By using fluoroscopic guidance to precisely deliver medication around a specific nerve root, doctors can observe whether the pain is alleviated, thus confirming that this particular nerve is indeed responsible for the discomfort.

This diagnostic aspect can be particularly valuable in cases where symptoms point to multiple potential sources of pain, allowing for more accurate treatment planning. Additionally, as SNRB delivers medication directly to the affected area, it may result in more targeted and effective pain relief compared to other injection techniques.

What Conditions Do They Treat?

Selective nerve root blocks are a valuable intervention for addressing various conditions related to spinal nerve compression.

These targeted injections are often utilized to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with:

• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Foraminal stenosis

By precisely administering medication to the affected nerve root, healthcare providers can effectively manage symptoms such as radiating pain, numbness, and tingling in specific areas of the body. Selective nerve root blocks can also offer a non-surgical alternative for patients who may not be suitable candidates for more invasive procedures.

In addition to managing acute and chronic back pain, selective nerve root blocks have shown promise in treating conditions like:

• Sciatica
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Spondylolisthesis

Overall, the versatile application of selective nerve root blocks emphasizes their significance in addressing a wide array of neurologic and musculoskeletal issues stemming from spinal nerve compression.

What To Expect from the Procedure

Patients can expect the procedure to be performed under fluoroscopic guidance, ensuring accurate placement of the needle and medication around the affected nerve root. While some individuals may experience immediate pain relief following the SNRB, it’s important to note that full benefits may take a few days to manifest as the steroid medication gradually reduces inflammation.

Those undergoing should anticipate a relatively quick recovery from the procedure, with minimal downtime needed before resuming normal activities. However, it’s essential to follow post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider to maximize the effectiveness of the SNRB.

Note: Individuals undergoing this treatment should maintain realistic expectations regarding pain reduction and understand that multiple injections or other complementary therapies may be necessary for the long-term management of their condition.

How Long Do They Last?

The duration of the effects of a selective nerve root block can vary widely from person to person. Some patients experience immediate relief that lasts for several weeks or even months, while others may find that the effects wear off more quickly.

Several factors can influence the duration of relief provided by selective nerve root blocks, including the underlying cause of the pain, individual variations in response to the treatment, and lifestyle choices. For example, individuals who engage in regular physical therapy or exercise programs following a selective nerve root block may experience longer-lasting benefits compared to those who lead sedentary lifestyles.

Also, addressing any contributing factors such as poor posture or muscle imbalances can help prolong the effectiveness of these interventions.

Get Treatment for Accident Pain Today

If you are experiencing persistent pain following an accident, seeking treatment through selective nerve root blocks at Impact Medical Sun City Center can provide relief and improve your quality of life.

With the expertise of our skilled medical team and the advanced technology utilized in this procedure, patients can expect personalized care and targeted pain management.

Don’t let accident-related pain hold you back any longer – schedule a consultation with our pain management team at Impact Medical Sun City Center at (813) 938-5195. We will help you on your path to living pain-free!