Nerve Root Block

A nerve root block determines if a specific inflamed spinal nerve is the source of your pain.

• Do not eat solid food 3 hours prior to the appointment
• If you have an active infection and are taking antibiotics, the medication course must be complete prior to the procedure
• If you are taking blood thinners (Coumadin, Plavix or Ticlid), you will have to stop the medication prior to the procedure. Contact your healthcare provider before stopping any medication to determine if it is safe for you.
• Inform us if you are or may be pregnant, or have allergies to medications or x-ray dye (contrast).

Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration.

A nerve root block will take about 30 minutes.

You will be positioned on your back or stomach on an x-ray table. The area to be injected will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area.

After the needle is placed, contrast material is injected to confirm that the needle is in the correct location. A needle is placed close to the suspected nerve and a small amount of anesthetic is injected to see if it reduces your pain symptoms.

A summary of the procedure and findings will be sent to your healthcare provider.

Rest for the remainder of the day and do not return to work until the following day. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24 hours after the procedure.

After the injection, you may feel soreness or tenderness at the needle insertion site. You can use an ice pack for up to 15 minutes per hour to relieve any discomfort.