Peripheral Nerve Block

A Peripheral Nerve Block is a procedure in which a local anesthetic (sometimes combined with a steroid or other medication) is injected near a specific nerve or group of nerves to block pain signals from a particular area of the body. It is used for pain relief or anesthesia in a targeted region, such as an arm, leg, or part of the face.

• Acute pain control (e.g., after surgery or injury)
• Chronic pain management (e.g., neuropathy, CRPS, nerve entrapment)
• Diagnostic purposes to determine the source of pain
• Therapeutic to relieve inflammation or nerve irritation

• Femoral nerve block – for thigh, knee, or hip pain
• Sciatic nerve block – for leg, foot, or lower back pain
• Brachial plexus block – for shoulder, arm, or hand pain
• Occipital nerve block – for headaches or scalp pain
• Intercostal nerve block – for rib or chest wall pain
• Ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block – for groin or abdominal wall pain

• Discuss all medications with your provider (especially blood thinners).
• You may be asked to fast (no food or drink) for a few hours before the block.
• Arrange for a ride home, especially if you receive sedation or if the block affects your ability to walk.

• You'll be positioned depending on the nerve being targeted.
• The skin will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
• A small needle is guided near the nerve using ultrasound or fluoroscopy (X-ray) for accuracy.
• The medication is slowly injected.
• Procedure time: usually 10–30 minutes
• Recovery/observation time: 30–60 minutes

What to Expect:

• Numbness, heaviness, or weakness in the targeted area is normal and may last a few hours.
• Pain relief may begin right away or take up to a few days, depending on the medication used.
• Some soreness at the injection site may occur.

Activity:

• Avoid driving or operating machinery until sensation and strength return.
• Protect the numb area from heat or injury (e.g., avoid heating pads, sharp objects).
• Gradually return to normal activity based on your provider's instructions.

Though generally safe, risks may include:

• Bruising or soreness at the injection site
• Temporary numbness or weakness
• Infection (rare)
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury (very rare)
• Allergic reaction to medications

• Local anesthetic effects: a few hours
• Steroid or anti-inflammatory effects (if used): days to weeks, sometimes longer
• Repeat blocks may be needed for ongoing pain control

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management specialists
• Advanced imaging guidance for precise nerve targeting
• Personalized treatment plans for optimal pain relief
• Comprehensive care before, during, and after the procedure

Our goal is to help you find effective, safe, and lasting solutions for your pain.