Chronic chest, rib, or upper abdominal pain can be debilitating and difficult to diagnose. Intercostal nerve blocks are minimally invasive pain management injections designed to relieve pain that originates from the intercostal nerves—the nerves that run between the ribs.
These injections can provide both diagnostic insight and therapeutic pain relief for a variety of nerve-related conditions.
What Are Intercostal Nerve Blocks?
Intercostal nerve blocks are injections that deliver anesthetic medication—sometimes combined with anti-inflammatory steroids—near the intercostal nerves. These nerves supply sensation to the chest wall, upper abdomen, and portions of the back.
By temporarily blocking pain signals from these nerves, intercostal nerve blocks can help confirm the source of pain and provide significant relief for patients suffering from nerve irritation or inflammation in the rib area.
Conditions Treated with Intercostal Nerve Blocks
Intercostal nerve blocks are commonly used to diagnose and treat pain caused by:
● Rib fractures or trauma● Post-surgical chest pain● Intercostal neuralgia● Shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)● Chronic chest wall pain● Upper abdominal pain● Nerve compression or irritation
These blocks are especially helpful when pain persists despite rest, medications, or physical therapy.
How Do Intercostal Nerve Blocks Work?
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis using imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure precise needle placement. Once the needle reaches the area near the affected intercostal nerve, a local anesthetic—sometimes combined with a corticosteroid—is injected.
If the patient experiences significant pain relief following the injection, it confirms that the targeted nerve is the primary source of pain. Relief may last from several hours to several weeks or longer, depending on the individual and the severity of the condition.
Benefits of Intercostal Nerve Blocks
Intercostal nerve blocks may provide several benefits, including:
● Rapid pain relief● Reduced nerve inflammation● Improved breathing comfort● Improved mobility and daily function● Diagnostic confirmation of nerve-related pain● Reduced reliance on oral pain medications
These injections are often part of a broader pain management treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medications, or additional interventional procedures.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Intercostal nerve blocks are typically quick and well-tolerated. The injection itself takes only a few minutes to administer. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and are able to return home the same day.
Temporary side effects may include mild soreness, bruising, or numbness in the treated area. These effects usually resolve on their own within a short time.