Nerve Block
An injection of anesthetic near specific nerves to temporarily block pain signals. Used for diagnosis, pain relief, or before surgery. Effects last hours to months depending on medication used.
Extended Definition
A nerve block involves injecting medication near a nerve or group of nerves to interrupt pain signals. It can be used diagnostically (to identify pain sources) or therapeutically (to provide relief).
Types of Nerve Blocks
By Duration:
- Temporary - Local anesthetic (hours)
- Medium-term - Steroid added (weeks-months)
- Long-term - Radiofrequency ablation (months-year)
By Location:
- Genicular nerve block - For knee pain
- Femoral nerve block - For hip/thigh pain
- Facet block - For spine pain
- Stellate ganglion - For arm/shoulder
Genicular Nerve Block for Knee OA
The genicular nerves carry pain signals from the knee. Blocking them can provide relief when:
- Standard treatments haven’t helped
- Patient isn’t a surgical candidate
- Need to delay knee replacement
Procedure:
- Performed with fluoroscopy or ultrasound
- 3-4 injection sites around knee
- Takes 15-30 minutes
- Can be repeated if effective
What to Expect
During:
- Local numbing at injection sites
- Mild pressure sensation
- Quick procedure (15-30 min)
After:
- Immediate numbness (diagnostic)
- Pain relief develops over days-weeks
- May have temporary leg weakness
- Avoid driving same day
Success Rates
Genicular nerve blocks for knee OA:
- 50-70% experience significant relief
- Duration: weeks to months
- If diagnostic block works, may proceed to radiofrequency ablation for longer relief
Related Terms
More Treatments Terms
View allCorticosteroid
A powerful anti-inflammatory medication similar to cortisol (a hormone naturally produced by the body) that can be injected into joints to quickly reduce swelling and pain.
Hyaluronic Acid
A naturally occurring substance found in synovial fluid that gives it its thick, gel-like consistency and lubricating properties. Also used as an injection treatment for joint pain.
Molecular Weight
The size of a molecule measured in daltons. In hyaluronic acid products, molecular weight affects how thick and long-lasting the injection is, with higher molecular weight typically providing longer relief.
NSAID
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug - a type of medication that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever by blocking enzymes that produce inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Orthotic
A custom or prefabricated device worn to support, align, or correct joint and limb function. For knee arthritis, includes braces, shoe inserts, and wedged insoles that reduce joint stress.