Nerve Block in Neck

With medical science touching new heights with time, the concept of pain medications has reached an all new different level. One of these pain medications which have done well in the field of medical science is what is known as nerve block. It refers to the administration of a nerve-numbing medication (anesthetic or anti-inflammatory injection) that helps in providing pain relief to the targeted area of the body. This substance works by inhibiting the nerve pathways that relay pain messages from the affected area to the brain. If the patient wishes to numb his pain, then the doctor can administer a single shot of injection containing the medication. However, if he wishes for pain relief longer than that, then, a medical device may be put to use. This device is known as a catheter, and it is placed in the affected area. With the help of this device, the patient would be able to get a continuous supply of the pain-relieving medication.

Facts about Nerve Block in Neck

Cervical epidural is the name of the injection that is administered for relieving pain in the neck. The spine and nerve roots in the neck have a membrane like covering. This is known as the dural membrane, which is also known as the outermost and toughest of the three meninges. And this very membrane is surrounded by a space, known as the epidural space. This space lies in the path of the nerves that travel to the neck, shoulder and arms. So any kind of nerve damage in the neck which may occur due to injury or some medical condition, gives rise to pain in this space. So what the epidural injection does is, it provides a nerve block in the neck, by putting the medication into the epidural space. The medication, as said, interferes with the pain messages that are communicated to the brain thus, bringing about a reduction in the pain, not only in the neck but in the shoulders and arms, as well.

Benefits and Side Effects

The benefits of using nerve block are as follows:

• Reduction in the pain, which is although temporary, but helps in daily functioning, which otherwise would be difficult.
• Reducing inflammation of the damaged nerves.
• Helps in determining the 'epicenter' of the pain.
• Use of nerve block also helps the doctor to draw a conclusion about how would a long-term treatment plan do for dealing with the pain.
• Helps in providing short-term pain relief post surgery.
• May help to determine a specific cause of the pain.

The possible risks or side effects that may come along with the benefits of nerve block injection may include:

• The site that is injected may become sore, or infected.
• Some people may suffer from elevated blood sugar level. This can be a concern for diabetics.
• Rash may develop at or near the site of the injection, and may be accompanied by itching.
• Bleeding may be common.
• The medication may be accidentally delivered to nerves which are not meant to be treated.
• The person may gain weight.
• A drive of extra energy may be felt by the treated person.

The success of using nerve block depends on the problem of the patient. Most often, the effect of the medication is short-lived, which may provide relief from pain or may not, at all. Also, depending upon the result, the use may be discontinued according to the instruction of a doctor. And in case, this approach does nor work out, then the doctor may recommend an alternative.