RehabifyWhat it is
A nerve block is an injection that numbs a nerve for a while. Imaging lets the doctor see the needle and the target, so the medicine goes to the right place and nearby structures are avoided. Common procedures include:
- Facet joint injection or medial branch block, for pain from the small joints at the back of the spine
- Transforaminal or epidural steroid injection, for leg or arm pain from an irritated nerve root
- Sacroiliac joint injection, for pain low in the back near the pelvis
- Peripheral nerve blocks, for example the suprascapular nerve for shoulder pain or the genicular nerves for knee pain
Who should see a doctor about it
Signs to get checked
- Back, neck, leg or arm pain that has lasted more than 6 weeks despite exercise and medicines
- Pain that limits sleep, work or rehab
- People who want to avoid or delay surgery and want to know all options
- People referred by another doctor for a specific block
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
Discussion and consent
The doctor explains the procedure, what it may and may not do, the risks and other options. You sign a consent form.
- 02
Short observation
You rest for a while before going home.
- 03
Rehab
Exercises start or continue as the pain eases, so the benefit lasts.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Tell the doctor if you take blood thinners (such as aspirin, clopidogrel or warfarin), have diabetes, an allergy, an infection or may be pregnant
- Do not stop any medicine on your own; the doctor will advise
- Bring a family member or friend, and do not drive yourself home on the day
- Bring your scans and reports
After your visit
Some numbness or heaviness may last a few hours. Steroid medicine, when used, usually starts to work in 2 to 7 days. Rest for the day, then return to light activity. Keep a simple pain diary for 2 weeks. You can send questions on WhatsApp.
When to get help urgently
Medical emergency
Go to an emergency department or call 108 or 112 if after a procedure you have fever, increasing pain or swelling at the injection site, new weakness or numbness that does not wear off after a few hours, a severe headache, difficulty breathing, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Common questions
Does a nerve block hurt?
The skin is numbed first, so most people feel pressure and brief discomfort rather than sharp pain. Some feel a short flare of their usual pain as the medicine goes in. The doctor explains each step as it happens.
How long does the relief last?
It varies. Some people get a few weeks of relief, others several months, and some do not benefit. The aim is to calm pain enough for rehab to work. Results cannot be promised, and the doctor will discuss what is realistic for you.
Are steroid injections safe?
They are generally safe when done with imaging guidance by a trained doctor and with limits on how often they are repeated. Possible side effects include a short rise in blood sugar, facial flushing, infection, bleeding and, rarely, nerve injury. The doctor explains the risks before you consent.
How many injections can I have?
This depends on the type of injection, the response to earlier ones and your overall health. Steroid injections are usually limited to a few a year at the same site. Repeat injections are considered only if earlier ones helped and rehab is ongoing.
Will I need an injection after my first visit?
Not necessarily. Most plans start with exercise, posture advice and medicines. Injections are used only when the doctor finds them suitable after examining you.
Can I go back to work after the procedure?
Most people rest for the rest of the day and return to desk work the next day. Heavier work may need a few more days. The doctor will advise based on your job and the procedure.
Sources
- [1]
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline NG59. Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s (radiofrequency denervation and epidural injections)
- [2]
American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) guidance on interventional spine and pain procedures in patients on blood thinners
- [3]
Faculty of Pain Medicine of the Royal College of Anaesthetists. information for patients on pain procedures
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.