Supraorbital Nerve Block

A supraorbital nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve headache and facial pain originating from irritation or compression of the supraorbital nerve. The supraorbital nerve, a branch of the trigeminal nerve, provides sensation to the forehead, scalp, and upper eyelid.

By injecting a combination of local anesthetic and sometimes a steroid near the supraorbital nerve, this block can numb pain signals, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life for patients suffering from chronic headaches or facial pain.

Your provider may recommend a supraorbital nerve block if you suffer from:

• Chronic migraines
• Cluster headaches
• Supraorbital neuralgia (sharp, burning pain in the forehead)
• Post-traumatic headache (after head or facial injury)
• Facial pain syndromes not responding to medications

The block can serve both diagnostic (helping identify the source of pain) and therapeutic (providing pain relief) purposes.

The procedure is done in a comfortable outpatient setting.

• You will either sit or recline with the forehead exposed.
• The skin over the forehead is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic will numb the skin at the injection site.
• Using careful anatomical landmarks, a small needle is placed over the supraorbital notch (above the eyebrow), and medication is injected near the nerve.
• The procedure typically takes 15–20 minutes, and you can return home shortly after.

• Immediate numbness or tingling in the forehead region is normal due to the anesthetic.
• Pain relief may be immediate or develop over a few days, especially if a steroid is used.
• Mild soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site is common and usually resolves quickly.
• Many patients experience significant headache and facial pain relief lasting weeks to months, depending on their condition.

Supraorbital nerve blocks are generally very safe. Possible but rare side effects include:

• Temporary forehead numbness
• Mild bruising or swelling at the injection site
• Infection (extremely rare)
• Allergic reaction to medications (very rare)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, every precaution is taken to ensure your comfort and safety during and after the procedure.

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

• Board-certified pain management and headache specialists
• Precision-guided techniques for safe, effective nerve blocks
• Comprehensive, personalized care plans
• Minimally invasive therapies aimed at long-term pain relief

We are committed to helping you manage facial pain and headaches so you can get back to the activities you love.