Selective Nerve Root Block Injections in Louisville, KY

Targeted Pain Relief

Chronic back and neck pain can be a debilitating condition that severely impacts your quality of life, making everyday activities a challenge. When conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, and medication fail to provide lasting relief, it may be time to consider a more targeted approach. For residents of Louisville, Kentucky, a selective nerve root block (SNRB) injection performed by specialists at Commonwealth Musculoskeletal Medicine offers a powerful solution. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to pinpoint the precise source of your pain and deliver therapeutic relief directly to the affected area.

Call (502) 518-7923 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about selective nerve root block injections in Louisville, KY.

What is a Selective Nerve Root Block Injection?

A selective nerve root block is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to manage pain that originates from an inflamed or compressed spinal nerve root. Our spine is a complex structure of vertebrae, discs, and a network of nerves that branch out from the spinal cord. When one of these nerve roots becomes irritated—often by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or arthritis—it can cause a specific type of pain known as radiculopathy. This pain often radiates along the path of the nerve, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, legs, or back.

The term "selective" is key because the procedure targets a single, specific nerve root that is suspected to be the "pain generator." The injection contains a combination of two medications: a local anesthetic and a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid. The local anesthetic provides immediate, temporary pain relief, which is a critical diagnostic component. If the pain subsides shortly after the injection, it confirms that the targeted nerve root is indeed the source of the problem. The steroid then begins to work over the next few days to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.

The Procedure at Commonwealth Musculoskeletal Medicine

At Commonwealth Musculoskeletal Medicine in Louisville, your comfort and safety are the top priorities. The procedure is performed by a dual-board-certified physician in a sterile, medical setting. Here is a general overview of what you can expect:

• Consultation and Preparation: Before the procedure, you will have a thorough consultation to review your medical history, symptoms, and any previous diagnostic tests. You will be advised on any necessary pre-procedure instructions, such as fasting or temporarily stopping certain medications.
• The Injection: On the day of your appointment, you will be positioned comfortably on a specialized table, typically lying on your stomach. The injection site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort.
• Fluoroscopic Guidance: The physician uses a real-time X-ray device called a fluoroscope to precisely guide the needle to the targeted nerve root. A contrast dye may be used to confirm accurate needle placement and ensure the medication reaches the correct area.
• Medication Delivery: Once the needle is in the proper position, the mixture of local anesthetic and corticosteroid is carefully injected. You may feel a brief sensation of pressure or tingling during this step, but it is typically not painful.
• Recovery: The entire procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes. Afterward, you will be monitored for a short time in a recovery area before being discharged home. It is important to arrange for a driver, as you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

Contact Us Today

Selective nerve root block injections are a safe and effective option for targeted pain relief and diagnosis for individuals suffering from chronic back and neck pain in Louisville, KY. By addressing the root cause of your pain with precision, this procedure can provide significant, long-lasting relief and help you reclaim your daily life. If you have been struggling with persistent pain and have not found success with other treatments, a consultation with the specialists at Commonwealth Musculoskeletal Medicine is the first step toward a personalized and effective pain management plan. Take control of your pain and explore a solution that can help you move forward.

Call (502) 518-7923 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about selective nerve root block injections in Louisville, KY.