Services

Nerve Blocks

Nerve Blocks and Trigger Point Injections are injections to break the cycle of your pain.  The injections involve the physician using a special anesthetic injected into nerves and muscles to help calm down your pain.  These procedures, which are highly effective in chronic pain, are covered under the OHIP system.

They provide immediate and meaningful relief to patients, allowing them to do more in their lives.

Procedure Coverage:
OHIP-Covered, 3rd Party Insurance, Private Pay
Procedure Availability:
Mississauga, Etobicoke

Conditions

  1. Back Pain: Nerve blocks can target specific nerves in the spine to alleviate chronic back pain caused by conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or facet joint arthritis.
  2. Neuropathy: Nerve blocks are effective in managing neuropathic pain associated with conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (shingles), or peripheral neuropathy.
  3. Migraines and Headaches: Nerve blocks can provide relief for individuals experiencing chronic migraines or cluster headaches by targeting the nerves involved in the headache pathway.
  4. Joint Pain: Nerve blocks can be used to manage chronic pain in various joints, such as the knees, shoulders, or hips, caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other joint-related conditions.

Procedure

Preparing for the Nerve Block Procedure: To prepare for a nerve block procedure, it is important to follow these steps:

  1. Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a healthcare professional specializing in pain management to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options, including nerve blocks.
  2. Medication Adjustments: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, as certain medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued prior to the procedure.
  3. Fasting: You may be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of complications during the anesthesia.
  4. Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the effects of the anesthesia may temporarily impair your ability to drive.

The Nerve Block Procedure: During the nerve block procedure, the following steps typically take place:

  1. Anesthesia: You will be positioned comfortably, and the area to be treated will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
  2. Needle Placement: Using imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, a thin needle is carefully inserted near the targeted nerve or nerve cluster.
  3. Medication Injection: Once the needle is in position, the medication is injected, which may include a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief and a steroid to reduce inflammation and provide longer-term relief.
  4. Monitoring and Recovery: After the injection, you may be monitored for a short period before being released to go home. The effects of the nerve block can vary, with some individuals experiencing immediate pain relief, while others may require multiple treatments for optimal results.

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After the nerve block procedure, it is common to experience temporary numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area treated. Pain relief may be immediate or take a few days to fully manifest. It is important to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider, which may include limiting activities or taking pain medication as prescribed.

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Conclusion

Nerve blocks have emerged as a valuable tool in the management of chronic pain. By targeting specific nerves or nerve clusters, nerve blocks can provide significant relief for various conditions, including back pain, neuropathy, migraines, and joint pain. Proper preparation, including consultation with a healthcare professional and following pre-procedure instructions, can help ensure a successful nerve block procedure. Understanding the procedure itself and knowing what to expect afterward empowers individuals seeking chronic pain relief to make informed decisions about their treatment options. If you are living with chronic pain, consider discussing nerve blocks with a pain management specialist to explore this effective treatment option.

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Read more about conditions treated by Nerve Blocks

Osteoarthritis (and MSK) Pain
Nerve (Neuropathic) Pain
Muscle (Myofascial) Pain
Headaches
Shoulder Pain
Neck Pain

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