Peripheral Nerve Block
Targeted pain relief through precise nerve blocks
On this page
What Is a 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.
Why Are Peripheral Nerve Blocks Used?
- 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
Common Types of Peripheral Nerve Blocks
- 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
Before the Procedure
- 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.
During the Procedure
- 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
After the Procedure
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.
Risks and Side Effects
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
How Long Does the Block Last?
- 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
Why Choose Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah?
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.
Not sure where to start?
Schedule a visit—we'll help you find the right path forward.
Schedule a ConsultationMore in Targeted Pain
All treatments- Occipital Nerve BlockHeadache and migraine treatment
- Stellate Ganglion Nerve BlockUpper extremity pain relief
- Celiac Plexus BlockAbdominal pain management
- Lumbar Sympathetic Nerve BlockLower extremity pain relief
- Femoral Branch and Obturator Nerve BlockHip and thigh pain relief
- Genicular Nerve BlockKnee pain treatment
Ready to Find Relief?
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation for a Peripheral Nerve Block, please contact Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah below. Take the first step toward targeted pain relief today!