8 Different Types of Nerve Blocks

Nerve blocks are targeted injections that interrupt pain signals traveling through specific nerves. At Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute, Ronak D. Patel, MD, and our team use them to help manage acute or chronic pain, diagnose the source of pain, or provide relief before or after surgery. 

Here, we break down the eight different types of nerve blocks we offer, each with its own purpose and area of focus:

1. Celiac plexus block

This nerve block targets your celiac plexus, a bundle of nerves in your abdomen that carries pain signals from organs like your stomach, pancreas, liver, and intestines. It’s commonly used for managing chronic abdominal pain, especially in patients with pancreatic cancer or chronic pancreatitis. The goal is to reduce the need for strong pain medications like opioids.

2. Ganglion impar (coccygeal nerve) block

The ganglion impar is a collection of nerves located near your tailbone (coccyx). This block is helpful if you have pelvic, rectal, perineal, or coccygeal pain. It’s often used for conditions like chronic prostatitis, endometriosis-related pain, or pain following rectal or gynecological surgeries.

3. Intercostal nerve blocks

Intercostal nerves run between the ribs and can be a source of pain following trauma, surgery, or conditions like shingles. An intercostal nerve block involves injecting medication near the affected nerves to ease pain in the chest or upper abdominal wall. It can be used for both acute and chronic pain relief.

4. Lumbar sympathetic block

Lumbar sympathetic blocks target the sympathetic nerves located in your lower back and are typically used to treat complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or other forms of neuropathic pain in your legs and feet. It can also help improve blood flow and reduce swelling in the affected limb.

5. Medial branch blocks

Medial branch nerves carry pain signals from your small joints in the spine called facet joints. Medial branch blocks can diagnose and treat neck or back pain stemming from arthritis or joint degeneration. If the block provides temporary relief, a more permanent radiofrequency ablation may follow.

6. Occipital nerve block

We use occipital nerve blocks to relieve chronic headaches, including migraines and occipital neuralgia. These nerves are located at the back of your head and can become irritated, causing radiating pain. A quick injection at the base of the skull can offer relief that lasts for days or even weeks.

7. Stellate ganglion block

This block is aimed at the stellate ganglion, a group of sympathetic nerves in your neck. It’s used to treat conditions such as CRPS of the upper limb, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and hot flashes related to menopause or cancer treatments. Patients often report improved circulation and reduced pain after treatment.

8. Superior hypogastric plexus block

This nerve block targets the superior hypogastric plexus, which transmits pain from your pelvic organs. It’s typically used for chronic pelvic pain or pain related to cancer of the bladder, uterus, ovaries, or prostate. It can significantly reduce pain and improve your quality of life if you’re dealing with deep pelvic discomfort.

Next steps

If you’re suffering from chronic or severe pain, nerve blocks offer targeted, effective pain relief that can be life-changing. Depending on the location and cause of your pain, one of these nerve blocks might be the key to regaining comfort and mobility. 

Book an evaluation with our team of pain specialists today. We can help determine which option is right for your needs. Contact us by phone at 609-269-4451 or click here to schedule an appointment. We have offices in Plainsboro Township, Manalapan, and Freehold, New Jersey.