If you suffer from chronic leg pain, you may have heard of a procedure called a sympathetic block. This minimally invasive treatment has been proven effective in reducing leg pain caused by various conditions, including complex regional pain syndrome, peripheral vascular disease and diabetic neuropathy. But how does it work?
The Science Behind a Sympathetic Block
Before we delve into how sympathetic blocks work, let us first understand what they are.
A sympathetic block is a procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes in combination with a steroid, into the sympathetic nerves in the lumbar or sacral regions of the spine.
These nerves control various bodily functions, including blood flow and temperature regulation. When the nerves become overactive or damaged, they can cause chronic pain and other symptoms.
A Sympathetic Block’s Role in Reducing Leg Pain
Sympathetic blocks interrupt the signals the sympathetic nerves send to the brain. By blocking the nerve impulses, the brain no longer receives the message that there is a pain in the leg. Furthermore, a steroid injection reduces inflammation in the affected area, which can help ease the pain even more.
Sympathetic blocks are typically performed under fluoroscopic guidance, meaning a particular X-ray machine guides the needle into the correct location. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and takes less than an hour to complete.
What Are the Benefits of Sympathetic Blocks?
Sympathetic blocks offer several benefits for those suffering from chronic leg pain:
- They can provide significant pain relief, often within minutes of the injection.
- The technique is minimally invasive, meaning there is a reduced risk of complications.
- The effects of the procedure can last for several weeks or months, allowing patients to return to their normal activities and improve their quality of life.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Sympathetic Block?
A sympathetic block may be recommended for patients diagnosed with a condition that affects the sympathetic nerves. In addition, patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication, may also be good candidates.
It is important to note that not everyone will respond to a sympathetic block, and the procedure may not be effective for all types of leg pain. Dr. Roy Nini or one of Full Range Spine & Ortho’s other orthopedic doctors will discuss the procedure during a consultation and determine if it is a suitable solution for your condition.
Sympathetic Block Treatment in California
Sympathetic blocks can provide significant pain relief if you have chronic leg pain. At Full Range Spine & Ortho, we use the most up-to-date non-surgical treatments, like sympathetic blocks, to help patients get back to living a better life. Contact one of our California clinics as soon as possible to schedule a consultation.
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho