At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced and effective pain management options. For many of our patients in the San Francisco Bay Area, nerve blocks are a safe and effective way to manage pain, both before, during, and after a procedure.
Overview
A nerve block is a procedure that involves injecting a special type of medicine, called an anesthetic, near a specific nerve or group of nerves. This medicine temporarily numbs the nerves, which stops them from sending pain signals to your brain. This can provide significant pain relief and is a key part of our commitment to your comfort and well-being.
Nerve blocks can be used for several purposes:
- Pain relief after surgery: A nerve block can help manage pain after a procedure, reducing the need for strong pain medications like opioids.
- During surgery: In some cases, a nerve block can be used as the main form of anesthesia during a procedure, allowing you to remain awake without feeling any pain.
- To diagnose the source of pain: If you have chronic pain, a nerve block can help your doctor pinpoint the exact nerve that is causing the problem.
- To treat chronic pain conditions: For some people with long-term pain, nerve blocks can provide lasting relief and improve their quality of life.
Why a Nerve Block is Done
Your doctor at California Pacific Orthopaedics may recommend a nerve block for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons include:
- To manage pain after surgery: Nerve blocks are often used after orthopedic surgeries like knee replacements, shoulder surgeries, or hip replacements. They can provide excellent pain relief for the first 12-24 hours after surgery, which is often the most uncomfortable time. This can help you start your recovery and physical therapy sooner.
- To avoid general anesthesia: For some procedures, a nerve block can be used instead of general anesthesia. This can be a good option for people who have other medical conditions that make general anesthesia more risky.
- To reduce the need for opioids: Opioid pain medications can have serious side effects, including nausea, drowsiness, and the risk of addiction. By using a nerve block to manage your pain, we can often reduce the amount of opioid medication you need after surgery.
- To help with physical therapy: By providing good pain relief, a nerve block can make it easier for you to participate in physical therapy after surgery. This is an important part of a successful recovery.
What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
Before the Procedure
If you are scheduled for a nerve block, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare. These may include:
- Fasting: You may be asked to not eat or drink for a certain period of time before your procedure.
- Medications: You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, for a few days before your nerve block.
- Transportation: You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure, as you will not be able to drive yourself.
During the Procedure
A nerve block is usually done in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. Here’s what you can expect:
- You will be taken to a procedure room and asked to lie down in a comfortable position.
- Your doctor will clean the skin where the injection will be given.
- You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area.
- Your doctor will then use an ultrasound machine or a special X-ray machine called a fluoroscope to guide a very thin needle to the correct spot near the nerve.
- Once the needle is in the right place, your doctor will inject the numbing medication.
- The procedure usually takes about 10-20 minutes.
After the Procedure
After your nerve block, you will be taken to a recovery room where a nurse will monitor you for a short time. You can expect the following:
- Numbness: The area of your body that was treated will feel numb and heavy. This is normal and means the nerve block is working.
- Weakness: You may also have some muscle weakness in the treated area.
- Pain relief: You should have good pain relief for several hours. As the nerve block wears off, you may start to feel some tingling or “pins and needles.”
- Instructions: Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself at home. It is important to follow these instructions carefully.
As the nerve block wears off, your pain may return.. Your providerwill reassess and tailor a treatment plan for you.
Risks of a Nerve Block
Nerve blocks are very safe, but like any medical procedure, they do have some risks. These are rare, but it’s important to be aware of them. Risks include:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding, especially if you are taking blood-thinning medication.
- Nerve damage: In very rare cases, the needle can damage the nerve. This is usually temporary, but in some cases, it can be permanent.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the medication used in the nerve block.
Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of a nerve block with you before your procedure.
Finding a Nerve Block Specialist in San Francisco, CA
If you are looking for a doctor who specializes in nerve blocks in the San Francisco Bay Area, look no further than California Pacific Orthopaedics. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons and pain management specialists is here to help you find the right treatment for your pain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
