Struggling with Chronic Pain? When to Consider a Nerve Block

Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting. Everyday tasks such as walking, working, or even sleeping become difficult when pain doesn’t let up. 

Even though medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes may provide relief, they often aren’t enough. That’s when advanced options, like a nerve block, may be the solution.

At Florida Pain Medicine, our specialists utilize interventional treatments tailored to each patient’s needs, including minimally invasive options like nerve blocks.

If chronic pain is interfering with your quality of life, understanding when a nerve block may benefit you can be a step toward lasting relief. Keep reading to learn when it’s time to consider this treatment. 

Nerve block basics

A nerve block is a procedure designed to “turn off” pain signals traveling through specific nerves. By injecting a local anesthetic, steroid, or other medication around a targeted nerve, pain messages are temporarily interrupted before they reach your brain.

Depending on your condition, nerve blocks can be used to treat pain in the spine, joints, neck, back, or other areas of the body. 

They are not only a treatment for pain but also a valuable diagnostic tool. If a nerve block eases your discomfort, it helps confirm which nerve is responsible, which aids in guiding your future care.

When to consider a nerve block

So when is it time to consider a nerve block? Typically, this option is recommended if you meet one or more of the following:

Your chronic pain hasn’t improved with conservative treatments

If physical therapy, medications, or activity modifications no longer provide enough relief, a nerve block may be the next step.

Your pain interferes with daily life 

When discomfort limits your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy your normal activities, targeted relief can make a meaningful difference.

You struggle with spine-related conditions 

Nerve blocks are commonly used for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis in the spine, or sciatica.

You need both treatment and diagnosis 

Your Florida Pain Medicine care team may use a nerve block to confirm which nerve is the source of your pain before recommending longer-lasting procedures.

What to expect from the nerve block procedure

If you’re feeling nervous about the procedure, it’s helpful to understand that a nerve block is performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes only a short time. 

You lie comfortably while your provider uses imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to precisely place the injection. Most patients describe feeling only a brief pinch or pressure.

Your relief may be immediate, depending on the medication used, though some blocks can take a day or two to show results. 

Though the effects are temporary, lasting days to weeks, they often provide enough comfort to let you participate in physical therapy or other treatments that improve long-term outcomes. 

For some patients, repeat injections may extend the benefits.

Taking the next step

If chronic pain is disrupting your life, you don’t have to accept it as your new normal. Nerve blocks are among several interventional options that can provide both answers and relief.

The best way to find out if a nerve block is right for you is by speaking with a pain management expert. At Florida Pain Medicine, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort and function. 

If you have chronic pain and want to explore your options, call Florida Pain Medicine or book an appointment online. Together, we can decide on the best plan for your quality of life.