Selective Nerve Root Block Injections in Pikeville, KY

Selective nerve root block (SNRB) injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain originating from an irritated spinal nerve. This targeted approach is a cornerstone of effective pain management, particularly for conditions that cause pain to radiate from the spine into the arms, legs, and other parts of the body. The procedure involves a physician injecting a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid directly around a specific nerve root as it exits the spinal column. The anesthetic provides immediate, temporary pain relief, while the steroid works to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.

By targeting a single nerve, the physician can not only provide therapeutic pain relief but also use the procedure as a diagnostic tool. If the patient experiences significant pain reduction after the injection, it helps confirm that the targeted nerve is indeed the source of their discomfort. This diagnostic clarity is invaluable in developing a comprehensive treatment plan and can help a physician determine if a more invasive procedure, like surgery, is necessary.

Call (606) 934-0240 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about selective nerve root block injections in Pikeville, KY.

The Procedure at Commonwealth Pain & Spine Pikeville

At Commonwealth Pain & Spine Pikeville, the SNRB procedure is performed with the utmost precision and patient comfort in mind. The procedure is typically an outpatient service, meaning patients can return home the same day. Patients are positioned on a specialized table, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the injection site. Using advanced imaging techniques, such as fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray), the physician guides a thin needle to the exact location of the affected nerve root. A contrast dye may be used to confirm the needle's position before the medication is injected.

The entire process is relatively quick, usually taking between 20 to 30 minutes. Following the injection, patients are monitored for a short period in a recovery area before being discharged. It's important to have someone available to drive you home after the procedure. While some patients experience immediate relief from the anesthetic, the full benefits of the steroid may take several days to become noticeable.

Contact Us Today

Selective nerve root block injections offered at Commonwealth Pain & Spine Pikeville, represent an effective and targeted approach to managing chronic pain. By precisely identifying and treating the source of nerve irritation, this procedure provides a valuable alternative to more invasive treatments. Whether used as a diagnostic tool to pinpoint the origin of pain or as a therapeutic intervention to provide lasting relief, SNRB injections can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. If you're struggling with chronic neck, back, or radiating pain, consulting with the pain management specialists at Commonwealth Pain & Spine Pikeville is a crucial step toward finding a path to relief.

Call (606) 934-0240 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about selective nerve root block injections in Pikeville, KY.