FOR PATIENTS AND FAMILIES
General information about the purpose, assessment, possible benefits and risks of nerve blocks and image-guided injections.
UNDERSTAND THE FIELD
This section covers nerve blocks and image-guided injections considered for selected pain conditions. These procedures aim to reduce pain or help assess its source. The expected benefit and how long it lasts can vary between individuals and procedures.
Symptoms, examination findings, previous treatments, medicines and allergies are reviewed together. The purpose, alternatives, possible benefits and risks such as bleeding or infection are discussed. Suitability and follow-up are individualised; the same procedure is not recommended for everyone.
The guides below explain assessment, limitations and follow-up for nerve blocks and injections in more detail.
Browse interventional neurology guidesSource: Cambridge University Hospitals — Nerve block for headacheGloucestershire Hospitals — Nerve root injections
Interventional Neurology
Injections around the occipital, supraorbital or supratrochlear nerves may offer temporary relief for selected headache disorders; suitability, drug choice, uncertain benefit and risks need individual discussion.
Read guide: Peripheral Nerve Blocks for HeadacheA medial branch block is a temporary diagnostic procedure used in selected chronic low back pain to assess whether facet joints may contribute; it is not definitive proof and may provide no benefit.
Read guide: Facet-Related Pain and Medial Branch Blocks
An image-guided selective nerve root injection may provide diagnostic information or temporary symptom reduction for selected radicular pain; response is unpredictable and risks can be serious.
Read guide: Selective Nerve Root Injections