Chronic pain can significantly impact daily life, hindering mobility and diminishing overall well-being. Fortunately, modern medicine offers effective solutions for managing pain, including nerve blocks and epidural injections. Learn more about these procedures and find out if they are the right choice for you. These non-surgical treatment options are a key part of modern pain management and can help patients avoid more invasive procedures like surgery or long-term reliance on prescription medications. We offer these treatments at all of Advanced Pain Medical Group’s convenient locations in the Los Angeles area.
Understanding Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks are a targeted approach to pain management, involving the injection of medication directly into specific nerves. By blocking pain signals from reaching the brain, nerve blocks can provide significant relief for various conditions, including:
- Sciatica
- Neuropathy
- Facet Joint Syndrome
- Migraines
- Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
While nerve blocks offer localized relief, they may require multiple injections for sustained benefits. In addition to pain relief, nerve blocks can sometimes be used as a diagnostic tool to help pinpoint the exact source of pain, allowing your physician to develop a more precise and effective treatment plan.
Exploring Epidural Injections
Epidural injections, on the other hand, deliver medication into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. This technique provides broader relief, making it suitable for conditions such as:
- Herniated Discs
- Spinal Stenosis
- Childbirth-related Pain
- Post-surgical Pain
- Back & Neck Pain
Epidurals may contain a combination of medications, including steroids to reduce inflammation and local anesthetics for immediate pain relief. Depending on your condition, your physician may recommend a series of epidural injections over time to achieve optimal results. Many patients report a noticeable reduction in pain levels and improved ability to perform daily activities after treatment.
Types of Epidural and Nerve Block Procedures
At Advanced Pain Medical Group, we customize your injection therapy based on your specific condition and pain location. Understanding the different types of procedures helps you know what to expect during treatment.
Epidural Injection Types:
Our physicians use three main epidural approaches, each targeting different spinal regions. Transforaminal epidural injections deliver medication directly to a specific nerve root as it exits the spine, making them ideal for pinpointed nerve pain radiating down one arm or leg. Interlaminar epidural injections spread medication across a broader area of the epidural space, effectively treating pain affecting multiple levels of your spine. Caudal epidural injections enter through the tailbone area and work best for lower back and leg pain conditions.
Specialized Nerve Block Procedures:
Beyond standard nerve blocks, we offer several specialized techniques. Facet joint injections target the small joints along your spine that can cause localized back pain and stiffness. Medial branch blocks interrupt pain signals from facet joints and help determine if radiofrequency ablation would benefit you. Sympathetic nerve blocks address complex regional pain syndrome and certain types of circulatory pain. Occipital nerve blocks specifically treat chronic headaches and migraines originating from the back of your head.
How We Determine Your Treatment:
Your physician selects the appropriate procedure type based on your diagnostic imaging results, physical examination findings, and pain pattern description. Some patients benefit from a single injection type, while others require a combination approach for comprehensive pain relief. The goal is matching the right procedure to your unique pain source for maximum effectiveness.
Each procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes to complete, and our team uses fluoroscopic guidance throughout to ensure precise medication placement. This targeted approach maximizes pain relief while minimizing medication exposure and potential side effects.
Preparation For Injection Treatments
Before undergoing a nerve block or epidural, patients will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with patients receiving numbing medication to minimize discomfort.
During the injection, patients may feel pressure or a slight sting, but any discomfort is temporary. Following the procedure, patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a brief period. Advanced imaging techniques, such as fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, are often used to ensure accurate placement of the injection and maximize effectiveness. This advanced technology helps increase both the safety and success rate of the procedure.
Recovery and Follow-up
Recovery from a nerve block or epidural injection varies from patient to patient, with some experiencing immediate relief and others needing time for the medication to take effect fully. Common side effects may include temporary soreness at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days.
Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed. Your physician may also recommend physical therapy, stretching exercises, or lifestyle modifications to complement the effects of your injection and support long-term pain relief.
Get Relief From Pain With Nerve Blocks & Epidural Injections
Nerve blocks and epidurals offer valuable options for individuals seeking relief from chronic pain. By understanding the differences between these procedures and knowing what to expect before, during, and after treatment, patients can make informed decisions about their pain management journey.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to consult with a pain management doctor at Advanced Pain Medical Group to explore your options and regain control of your life. We have several pain clinics throughout the Los Angeles, CA metro area. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward living a more comfortable, active, and pain-free life.
Nerve Block & Epidural Injection FAQs
Yes, when performed by experienced physicians, nerve blocks and epidural injections are considered safe procedures with minimal risk of complications.
The duration of pain relief varies depending on the individual and the underlying condition being treated. Some patients may experience relief for weeks or months, while others may require repeat injections for sustained benefits.
In most cases, patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. However, it’s essential to follow any specific instructions provided by your physician and avoid strenuous activities for a brief period.