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Home  /  Treatments   /  Stellate Ganglion Block

Stellate Ganglion Block
Pain Management in Knoxville, TN

Overview

A stellate ganglion nerve block is an injection that numbs branches of nerves in your neck. This helps doctors find and treat a number of problems linked to the nerves. Treatment may require a series of injections. Stellate ganglion nerve block in Knoxville, TN pain clinic is an effective way to diagnose and treat many conditions.

Stellate ganglion block procedure

Anesthetic Injected

A local anesthetic is administered to numb the skin and the tissue that covers the spine.

About the Stellate Ganglion Nerves

The stellate ganglion nerves travel along both sides of your spine. They are associated with a wide range of bodily functions that you don’t consciously control. These include blushing, heart rate, sweating and the dilation of your pupils.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) - Knoxville, TN

Needle Inserted

When the area is numb, the physician carefully guides a needle into the foraminal space that surrounds the irritated nerve root.

Preparation

In preparation for the procedure, you lie on your back. You are given medicine to make you feel relaxed. The skin and tissue of your neck is numbed.

Inserting the Needle

The physician inserts a needle and carefully guides it to the nerves of the stellate ganglion. The physician typically uses an x-ray device called a “fluoroscope.” This shows a video image of the needle’s position. Contrast dye may be injected to help confirm that the needle is placed correctly.

Injecting the Medicine

Next, the physician injects medicine. It bathes the nerves. It can numb the nerves and reduce inflammation. If these nerves have been a source of pain, the medicine can relieve it. The injection may also provide other benefits, depending on your needs.

Stellate Ganglion Block in Knoxville, TN
Stellate ganglion block procedure in Knoxville, TN pain clinic

End of Procedure

When the procedure is complete, the needle is removed and the injection site is covered with a bandage. You will be monitored for a brief time before you are allowed to go home. After a stellate ganglion block, many people experience some noticeable temporary effects. The arm on the side where you were given the injection may feel warm and tingly. Your voice may be hoarse. You may have nasal congestion, a flushed face and a droopy eye. These effects are normal, and they usually disappear after a few hours. You may need to return for more injections in the future.

Stellate ganglion block in Knoxville, TN

Stellate ganglion block is an effective treatment option for chronic pain located in the head, neck, chest or arm, caused by specific nerve conditions. During the procedure, a local anesthetic in injected into the stellate ganglion, which is a cluster of nerves located in the neck.

Any medical procedure requires prior consultation with a qualified physician to ensure that there are no contraindications and to achieve the best result. For a stellate ganglion block in Knoxville, Tennesee, reach out to a leading Omega Pain Management clinic. For many years, Dr. Igor Smelyansky has been passionate about helping his patients relieve pain. Make an appointment today at (865) 337-5137!