If you’re struggling with debilitating lower back or leg pain and regular pain meds aren’t cutting it, a lumbar sympathetic nerve block at Advanced Pain Medical Group in California may help. This minimally invasive procedure targets the pain at its source, doesn’t require addictive medications, and can provide longer-lasting relief than a daily pill.
What’s A Lumbar Sympathetic Nerve Block?
A lumbar sympathetic nerve block is a specialized medical procedure designed to relieve pain caused by sympathetic nerves in the lumbar region of the spine. These nerves play a crucial role in controlling blood flow to the lower extremities and can be a source of debilitating pain when they malfunction.
What Can It Help With?
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Pain
- Vascular Insufficiency
- Certain Types Of Chronic Lower Back Pain
How A Lumbar Nerve Block Works
During the procedure, your pain management specialist will carefully insert a needle near your lumbar sympathetic nerves, using ultrasound or fluoroscopy for guidance. Then, they’ll inject a local anesthetic (and possibly a corticosteroid or other anti-inflammatory drug) into the targeted area. This effectively “blocks” the transmission of pain signals from these nerves to the brain, offering longer-lasting relief.
What To Expect Afterward A Lumbar Injection
Following the 15-30 minute procedure, we’ll monitor you briefly to ensure no adverse reactions to the injection. You can go home on the same day and resume your daily activities shortly after that.
- You may want to take it easy on the first day.
- Do not take a bath for the first 24 hours.
- Ice the site of your injection if you feel sore.
- Wait to take blood thinners until your care team says it is okay.
How Quickly Does It Work?
The time it takes to experience relief after a lumbar sympathetic block varies from patient to patient. Some people feel it immediately due to the local anesthetic, whereas, for others, it may take a few days to feel the full effects of the treatment once the anti-inflammatory effects kick in. You may need repeated injections to maintain lasting relief depending on your specific condition and how your body metabolizes the meds.
Find Custom-Tailored Pain Relief Plans In California
If you’ve been struggling with lower back and leg pain, a pain management specialist can fill in the gaps in your treatment plan even when your GP can’t. The expert doctors at Advanced Pain Medical Group offer a range of high-tech, state-of-the-art treatments to help you find relief and regain control over your life. Don’t let chronic pain hold you back—contact one of our eight locations today to schedule your first appointment.