Overview:
Selective Nerve Root Block is designed to diagnose and treat inflammation in the spinal nerve.
Like many nerve blocks, an injection is used to both reduce inflammation as well as decrease pain. Dr. Henriquez uses an anesthetic like lidocaine as well as a steroid to increase the relief from pain.
The procedure lasts about 20 minutes, and it’s all taken care of right in our office. The area will be cleaned first. Then, using the fluoroscopy and ultrasound machines, Dr. Henriquez is able to guide the needle to the exact location for each patient. A tiny amount of dye is used first to ensure the location is correct. Then, the injection of the medicine and steroids will take place.
How a Nerve Block Actually Works:
Using the steroid and anesthetic to block a nerve works in three ways.
- Decreases the action of enzymes that tells the brain there is pain present.
- Blocks fibers within a given nerve so that less pain is transmitted to the brain.
- Lowers the ability of nerve fibers to receive blood therefor lessening pain transmission.
Treatment Options
Call us so we can set up an appointment to discuss your options for chronic pain treatment. Dr Henriquez strives to provide an approach for personal and compassionate care.
Learn more about Chronic Pain
Getting out of Pain – 3 minute video
