When pain becomes chronic, it may require a more advanced and targeted approach for relief. In some cases, a sympathetic nerve block may be recommended. This works by interrupting pain signals transmitted through the sympathetic nervous system, providing focused relief for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments and wish to avoid surgery. Read on to find out more about how it works and whether you are a suitable candidate for it.
Understanding Sympathetic Nerve Blocks
A sympathetic nerve block is a minimally invasive injection commonly used for chronic pain relief in Singapore. The procedure involves delivering medication near a cluster of sympathetic nerves, known as a ganglion or plexus. These nerves are part of the body’s sympathetic nervous system, which controls automatic responses such as the “fight-or-flight” reaction. By temporarily blocking these pain pathways, the injection helps reduce discomfort, improve blood flow and restore mobility in the affected area.
What Conditions Can Sympathetic Nerve Blocks Treat?
Sympathetic nerve blocks are often recommended when conventional treatments such as medication, rest or physiotherapy do not provide sufficient pain relief. These injections work by targeting the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates involuntary body functions such as blood flow and stress response. By interrupting abnormal nerve activity, they can help manage several chronic pain conditions.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS is a chronic pain condition that can develop after an injury, surgery, stroke or heart attack. A sympathetic nerve block temporarily interrupts the activity of the affected sympathetic nerves, helping to reduce burning pain, swelling and temperature changes in the affected limb.
Severe Raynaud’s Phenomenon
This condition occurs when blood vessels in the fingers or toes constrict excessively in response to cold or stress, leading to pain and colour changes. A sympathetic block helps relax these blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing the risk of ulcers or tissue damage.
Ischemic Pain
Ischemic pain develops when an area of the body receives insufficient blood supply, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. By targeting sympathetic nerves in the lower back that influence circulation in the legs and feet, a nerve block can enhance blood flow and ease discomfort.
Phantom Limb Pain
After an amputation, some patients continue to feel pain in the missing limb. A sympathetic nerve block can disrupt abnormal signals between the damaged nerve endings and the spinal cord, helping to reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Sympathetic Nerve Block?
Not everyone with chronic pain is suitable for a sympathetic nerve block. This procedure is typically recommended for patients who meet specific clinical criteria and whose symptoms suggest involvement of the sympathetic nervous system.
- Chronic Nerve-related Pain: Candidates usually experience persistent pain that appears to be mediated by sympathetic nerves. The pain is often described as burning, shooting or electric-like in nature.
- Poor Response to Conservative Treatments: Patients who have not achieved sufficient relief from medication, physiotherapy or other non-invasive therapies may benefit from a sympathetic nerve block as the next step in pain management.
- Diagnostic Clarification Needed: The procedure can also serve a diagnostic purpose. If the block relieves pain, it confirms that the sympathetic nervous system is contributing to the condition, helping guide further treatment decisions.
- Preference for Non-surgical Options: Individuals who wish to avoid or delay surgery may consider sympathetic nerve blocks as a minimally invasive alternative.
- Medically Stable Condition: Candidates must be in good overall health and medically stable to safely undergo the outpatient injection. Pre-procedure evaluation ensures that any existing conditions are well managed.
What Are the Benefits of Sympathetic Nerve Block?
Sympathetic nerve block offers several benefits for people struggling with chronic pain, including:
- Significant Pain Relief: Sympathetic nerve blocks temporarily interrupt abnormal nerve signals, reducing chronic, burning pain.
- Improved Blood Flow: By relaxing blood vessels, sympathetic nerve blocks can enhance circulation to the affected limb.
- Improve Mobility and Function: When pain is reduced, patients can move more freely and comfortably.
- Diagnostic Confirmation: In addition to providing pain relief, sympathetic nerve blocks can help determine whether the sympathetic nervous system is the source of pain.
- Minimally Invasive Option: The procedure is an outpatient injection, carrying fewer risks and requiring far less recovery time than surgery.
Are There Any Potential Risks and Side Effects?
Sympathetic nerve blocks are generally considered safe when performed by an experienced pain specialist. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of. These are usually mild and short-lived.
- Temporary Soreness: Mild to moderate soreness or tenderness may develop at the injection site as the needle passes through skin and muscle tissue.
- Bruising at the Injection Site: Minor bruising may occur due to small amounts of bleeding under the skin where the injection was administered.
- Temporary Nerve Irritation: The injection may briefly irritate nearby sensory or motor nerves, leading to short-term tingling, numbness or mild discomfort.
- Warmth or Flushing in the Affected Limb: This is a common and harmless response that indicates the nerve block is working as intended.
Most side effects resolve on their own within a few hours to a day. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed under proper guidance and sterile conditions.
If you are struggling with chronic pain that has not responded to conventional treatment, a sympathetic nerve block may offer meaningful relief. Consult our Dr Thor Timothy, to determine whether this procedure is suitable for you and to ensure it is carried out safely and effectively. Contact our clinic today to book an appointment.
