What are Cervical Nerve Root Blocks?

A cervical nerve root block involves injecting a combination of medication, typically a local anesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid, near the spinal nerve root as it exits the spinal column in your neck. These nerve roots branch out from the spinal cord and travel down your arm, providing sensation and muscle control. When a nerve root becomes compressed or inflamed, due to conditions like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, it can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm. The medication injected during a cervical nerve root block helps:

• Numb the nerve: The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief by blocking pain signals from the inflamed nerve root.
• Reduce inflammation: In some cases, a corticosteroid may be included to reduce inflammation around the nerve root for longer-lasting relief.

Conditions Treated with Cervical Nerve Root Blocks at Ishaan Ortho & Spine:

• Herniated disc: A herniated disc in the cervical spine can bulge or leak out, pressing on a nerve root and causing radiating pain, numbness, and weakness down the arm (cervical radiculopathy).
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck can compress nerve roots, leading to similar radiating pain, numbness, and weakness.
• Foraminal stenosis: This specific type of stenosis narrows the opening where nerve roots exit the spinal canal, causing nerve compression and pain.
• Post-surgical pain: Nerve root blocks may be used after cervical spine surgery to manage pain and promote healing.

Benefits of Cervical Nerve Root Blocks:

• Targeted pain relief: Medication is delivered directly to the inflamed nerve root, providing effective and immediate relief for radiating pain down the arm.
• Diagnostic tool: A successful nerve block can help confirm the specific nerve root causing your pain, aiding in diagnosis.
• Minimally invasive procedure: Injections are performed on an outpatient basis (Day Care) with minimal discomfort.
• Improved mobility: By reducing pain and potentially improving nerve function, blocks can help you regain mobility and function in your neck and arm.
• Potential to avoid surgery: In some cases, successful nerve blocks can provide long-lasting pain relief and help you avoid surgery.

What to Expect During a Cervical Nerve Root Block at Ishaan Ortho & Spine:

1. Consultation: Dr. Subodh M Shetty will discuss your pain symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination to determine if a cervical nerve root block is the right approach for you. X-rays or other imaging tests (MRI) may be recommended for a more precise diagnosis.
2. Preparation: The area to be injected will be cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthetic may be applied to numb the injection site and minimize discomfort.
3. Fluoroscopy Guidance: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), Dr. Shetty will carefully guide a thin needle to the precise location near the affected nerve root.
4. Injection: The medication is then injected near the nerve root. The entire procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.
5. Recovery: Cervical nerve root blocks are Day Care procedures, and you can usually resume most activities after the injection. Dr. Shetty will provide specific instructions regarding rest, icing, and any limitations on movement.

Following a Cervical Nerve Root Block:

• You may experience some mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• The pain relief from the local anesthetic typically lasts for several hours, while the effects of a corticosteroid (if used) may take a few days to become apparent.
• Depending on the severity of your condition, a series of injections may be recommended, spaced a few weeks apart.
• It is important to follow Dr. Shetty’s instructions regarding rest and physical therapy exercises to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment and potentially improve nerve function.

Are Cervical Nerve Root Blocks Right for You?

Schedule a consultation with Dr Subodh M Shetty at Ishaan Ortho & Spine to discuss your pain and explore if cervical nerve root blocks can offer targeted relief. Our Day Care services provide a convenient and effective approach to managing pain and improving your quality of life.