Therapy
Nerve Block
A nerve block injects local anaesthetic (and sometimes steroid) around a nerve to numb an area for surgery or to relieve pain.
Quick answer
Nerve Block: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A nerve block places anaesthetic near a specific nerve or group of nerves to stop them carrying signals, numbing part of the body. It is used for anaesthesia during procedures and to treat acute or chronic pain.
- Why it is done: It is used to provide pain relief or numbness for operations (sometimes avoiding a general anaesthetic), to control pain after surgery or injury, and to treat some long-term pain conditions.
- What happens: The skin is cleaned and the injection is given near the nerve, often guided by ultrasound or X-ray for accuracy.
What it is
A nerve block places anaesthetic near a specific nerve or group of nerves to stop them carrying signals, numbing part of the body. It is used for anaesthesia during procedures and to treat acute or chronic pain.
Why it is done
It is used to provide pain relief or numbness for operations (sometimes avoiding a general anaesthetic), to control pain after surgery or injury, and to treat some long-term pain conditions.
What happens
The skin is cleaned and the injection is given near the nerve, often guided by ultrasound or X-ray for accuracy. It takes a few minutes, and numbness or pain relief usually follows within a short time.
Recovery
The numbness wears off over hours for a single block. For chronic pain, relief from a steroid block can last weeks to months. You are advised how to protect a numb limb until sensation returns.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks are generally small and include bruising, temporary weakness of the numbed area, infection, and rarely nerve irritation or injury. Relief from pain blocks may be temporary and need repeating.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Nerve Block: frequently asked questions
Will I be awake if I have a nerve block for surgery?
You can be. A nerve block can provide numbness for an operation while you stay awake or lightly sedated, avoiding a full general anaesthetic, though this depends on the procedure and your preference.
How long does a nerve block last?
A single anaesthetic block wears off over hours, while blocks used for chronic pain, often with steroid, can give relief for weeks to months and may be repeated.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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