Nerve blocks for pain relief are a treatment many patients hear about when other options haven’t brought lasting results. In simple terms, a nerve block is an injection that delivers medication directly around specific nerves to stop or reduce pain signals.
This guide breaks down what nerve blocks are, how they work, and why they’re used—not just as treatment, but also as a way to diagnose the exact source of chronic pain. For anyone exploring minimally invasive pain solutions, nerve blocks are a trusted and proven option.
What Are Nerve Blocks?
A nerve block is a procedure where a doctor injects medication near a targeted nerve or group of nerves to reduce pain. The medication may include a local anesthetic to numb the area, a steroid to reduce inflammation, or a combination of both.
Nerve blocks can provide temporary relief that lasts a few hours or days, or longer-lasting relief that continues for weeks or even months—depending on the type of block performed. This flexibility makes them an important tool in managing different kinds of pain.
How Nerve Blocks Work
Blocking Pain Signals
Pain starts when irritated nerves send signals up to the brain. A nerve block calms or numbs these nerves so the “pain messages” don’t reach the brain as strongly—or at all.
Targeted Relief
Unlike pain pills that affect the whole body, nerve blocks target the exact nerve or region responsible for the pain. This precision means patients often experience fast, focused relief where they need it most.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Purposes
Nerve blocks aren’t just for treatment—they’re also a powerful diagnostic tool. If pain eases after the injection, doctors can confirm which nerve is causing the problem. At the same time, patients benefit from meaningful short- or long-term relief.
Types of Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks for pain relief come in different forms, each designed to target specific sources of pain.
- Epidural nerve blocks – Commonly used for back and leg pain, as well as pain during childbirth.
- Facet joint blocks – Target the small joints in the spine to relieve arthritis or spinal joint pain.
- Peripheral nerve blocks – Focus on specific nerves in the arms, legs, or other areas to ease localized pain, often used before or after surgery.
- Sympathetic nerve blocks – Used to calm pain caused by conditions like Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) or vascular pain.
- Selective nerve root blocks – Deliver medication directly to an irritated nerve root in the spine, helping with back or neck pain that radiates into the limbs.
Benefits of Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks offer multiple advantages that make them a trusted option in modern pain care:
- Rapid pain relief for both acute and chronic pain.
- Minimally invasive with no need for surgery.
- Reduced reliance on opioid medications, lowering risks of dependency.
- Diagnostic value, helping doctors confirm the exact source of pain.
- Improved mobility, sleep, and overall quality of life, allowing patients to return to daily activities with less discomfort.
Conditions Treated with Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks for pain relief are used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Herniated discs and sciatica.
- Spinal arthritis and stenosis.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
- Post-surgical or post-injury pain.
- Cancer-related pain.
- Chronic headaches and migraines.
Safety and Risks of Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks are generally safe, especially when performed under imaging guidance by a pain management specialist.
- Common side effects include temporary soreness, numbness, or mild weakness in the treated area.
- Rare risks such as infection, bleeding, or nerve injury can occur, though they are uncommon.
- Choosing an experienced specialist is the best way to minimize risks and ensure the procedure is performed safely.
What to Expect Before, During, and After a Nerve Block
Before the Procedure
You’ll have a consultation where your medical history is reviewed, and you’ll receive instructions about fasting, adjusting medications, or arranging a ride home.
During the Procedure
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. You’ll receive local anesthesia, and with the help of X-ray or ultrasound guidance, the injection is placed precisely where it’s needed.
After the Procedure
You’ll be monitored briefly, then discharged the same day. Some soreness may occur, but many patients notice relief quickly. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy to help maximize results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nerve Blocks?
Nerve blocks are best suited for:
- Patients with pain not controlled by medications or conservative care.
- Those who need diagnostic confirmation of where their pain originates.
- People looking for temporary but meaningful relief to improve daily function.
Nerve blocks may not be recommended for patients with active infections, bleeding disorders, or allergies to anesthetics or steroids.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Relief may last from a few days to several months, depending on the type of block and condition treated.
Most patients feel only a quick pinch and mild pressure. Local anesthesia helps keep the procedure comfortable.
Nerve blocks can be repeated if pain returns, usually spaced out over several weeks or months.
Some patients feel relief within hours, while others may notice improvement over a few days.
They may not cure the underlying cause but can provide significant, sometimes long-lasting, relief.
Yes—most insurance providers, including Medicare, cover nerve blocks when medically necessary.
Conclusion
Nerve blocks are a safe, effective option for both diagnosing and treating many types of pain. By targeting pain at the source, they can provide meaningful relief without the need for surgery or heavy reliance on medications. Schedule a consultation with The Center for Regenerative Therapy & Pain Management to learn if a nerve block could help you find relief. We’re here to support patients seeking expert pain management in New Jersey.
