Nerve Block

What is a nerve block?

A nerve block is a targeted injection that delivers numbing medicine (local anesthetic), sometimes combined with a small amount of steroid, near specific nerves to reduce pain and inflammation. At Iowa Ortho, nerve blocks are used both to diagnose the source of pain and to treat it, helping patients return to work, sports, and daily life with less discomfort.

Nerve blocks are typically performed with fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or ultrasound guidance for precise, safe placement.

Conditions nerve blocks can help

Your Iowa Ortho provider may recommend a nerve block for pain related to:

• Spine: facet joint–related neck or low back pain, radiculopathy, occipital neuralgia
• Joints & extremities: knee osteoarthritis (genicular nerve), shoulder pain (suprascapular nerve), hip pain (articular branches)
• Peripheral nerve irritation: carpal tunnel–related pain flares, Morton’s neuroma, intercostal neuralgia
• Post-surgical or post-injury pain when targeted relief is needed

Diagnostic vs. therapeutic nerve blocks

• Diagnostic blocks help confirm whether a specific nerve is the source of pain. If a block provides short-term relief, it guides next steps (e.g., physical therapy focus or advanced options like radiofrequency ablation when appropriate).
• Therapeutic blocks aim to provide longer-lasting pain reduction so you can move better, sleep better, and progress in rehab.

How do nerve blocks work?

Local anesthetics temporarily quiet pain signals traveling along the nerve. When combined with a small dose of a steroid, inflammation around the nerve can be reduced, extending relief for weeks to months, depending on the condition and activity level.

Preparing for a nerve block

To maximize safety and results:

• Medications: Tell us about all medicines, especially blood thinners; you may receive specific instructions.
• Allergies/health: Share any contrast, anesthetic, or steroid allergies; mention diabetes or recent illness.
• Eating & drinking: Most patients can eat and drink normally unless told otherwise.
• Getting home: You can usually drive yourself unless sedation is planned.

What to expect on the day

1. Check-in & review: We confirm your medical history and answer questions.
2. Positioning & prep: The skin is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic.
3. Image guidance: Using ultrasound or fluoroscopy, the provider positions a small needle next to the target nerve.
4. Injection: Local anesthetic (with or without a steroid) is delivered.
5. Brief observation: You’ll rest for a short period and typically go home the same day.

Most procedures take 15–30 minutes. Some conditions may benefit from a series of injections.

After the procedure

• Activity: Resume light activity the same day; avoid strenuous exercise until the next day.
• Relief timeline: Many patients feel relief quickly; steroid benefits (if used) may build over 48–72 hours.
• Soreness: Mild injection-site tenderness can occur and usually fades within 24 hours.
• Follow-up: Your provider will review your response and discuss whether additional therapy, injections, or other options are appropriate.

Why choose Iowa Ortho for nerve blocks?

• Orthopedic & pain expertise: Board-certified specialists tailor blocks to your diagnosis and goals.
• Image-guided precision: Ultrasound and fluoroscopy help ensure accurate medication placement.
• Team-based care: Injections are integrated with physical therapy and rehab to maximize function.
• Convenient access: Multiple Central Iowa locations and coordinated scheduling for faster relief.

FAQs

Will a nerve block cure my pain?

Nerve blocks reduce pain and inflammation and often enable better participation in therapy. Some conditions may need repeated blocks or advanced treatments for longer relief.

How long will relief last?

Duration varies by condition and activity level, from several days to months. Your provider will set expectations for your specific case.

Can I drive afterward?

Yes, unless you receive sedation. If sedation is planned, please arrange a driver.

How do you know which nerve to block?

Your provider uses your history, exam, and imaging to select the most likely pain generator; diagnostic blocks can confirm the source.

Schedule a nerve block

If joint, spine, or nerve pain is limiting your life, a nerve block at Iowa Ortho may help you move with confidence again.

Call 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online to get started.