Chronic neck or back pain can significantly interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. In many cases, this pain originates from the facet joints of the spine. Medial branch nerve blocks are minimally invasive pain management injections used to diagnose and relieve pain caused by irritated or inflamed facet joints.
If you are experiencing persistent spine-related pain, medial branch nerve blocks may help identify the source of your discomfort and provide relief. To learn more, call (215) 201-4569 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
What Are Medial Branch Nerve Blocks?
Conditions Treated with Medial Branch Nerve Blocks
How Do Medial Branch Nerve Blocks Work?
Benefits of Medial Branch Nerve Blocks
Are Medial Branch Nerve Blocks Right for You?
Medial branch nerve blocks are a type of pain management injection that targets the medial branch nerves. These small nerves carry pain signals from the facet joints in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine to the brain. When these joints become inflamed or damaged, the medial branch nerves can transmit ongoing pain.
By injecting medication near these nerves, medial branch nerve blocks help reduce inflammation and temporarily interrupt pain signals, offering both diagnostic insight and therapeutic relief.
Medial branch nerve blocks may be recommended for patients experiencing:
● Chronic neck or back pain● Facet joint syndrome● Spinal arthritis● Whiplash-related injuries● Degenerative disc disease● Pain that worsens with twisting or bending
These injections are often used to determine whether the facet joints are the primary source of pain.
Medial branch nerve blocks are performed under imaging guidance to ensure accuracy and safety. During the procedure, a small needle is guided to the medial branch nerves that supply the painful facet joints. A combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication is then injected.
The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically completed on an outpatient basis. Patients are usually able to return home the same day.
When effective, medial branch nerve blocks may provide:
● Temporary or long-term pain relief
● Reduced inflammation in facet joints
● Improved mobility and flexibility
● Confirmation of the source of spinal pain
● Guidance for future treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation
Medial branch nerve blocks are often used as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
A thorough evaluation by a pain management specialist is necessary to determine if medial branch nerve blocks are appropriate for your condition. Imaging studies and a physical examination may be used to confirm whether facet joint dysfunction is contributing to your pain.