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Did you know that 20.4% of adults in the USA have chronic pain? This pain can impact every aspect of your life, and traditional pain management methods may not always be effective.  That’s where nerve block procedures come in. A nerve block procedure is a type of pain management procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic to temporarily block the transmission of pain signals along the nerves. At its core, nerve blocks fall under the umbrella of pain management, aimed at alleviating discomfort and improving the overall quality of life.  Keep reading to learn more about the details of nerve block procedures and how they can help you manage your pain. Taking a Closer Look at Nerve Blocks When it comes to managing pain caused by various medical conditions, nerve blocks are becoming an increasingly popular option for temporary pain relief. Nerve blocks involve injecting local anesthetic medications into a group of nerves that are responsible for causing pain in a specific area of the body. The Different Types of Nerve Blocks Nerve blocks are medical interventions used to control or manage pain by blocking the transmission of nerve signals to relieve pain. They can be classified into surgical and non-surgical methods, each with its own applications and considerations. Surgical Nerve Blocks: Surgical Sympathectomy:  Involves cutting or damaging specific nerves to disrupt the sympathetic nervous system. Applications: Used for conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Neurectomy: Procedure: Surgical removal or transection of a nerve. Applications: May be performed to treat certain types of chronic pain when other treatments have failed. Peripheral Nerve Decompression: Procedure: Surgical decompression of nerves from entrapment or compression. Applications: Often employed for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): Procedure: Implantation of electrodes near the spinal cord, delivering electrical impulses to disrupt pain signals. Applications: Used for chronic pain conditions, including failed back surgery syndrome and complex regional pain syndrome. Non-surgical Nerve Blocks: Local Anesthetic Injections: Procedure: Involves injecting a local anesthetic near a nerve or group of nerves. Applications: Commonly used for diagnostic purposes to identify the source of pain or for therapeutic pain relief. Epidural Steroid Injections: Procedure: Injection of a corticosteroid and anesthetic into the epidural space around the spinal cord. Applications: Often used for pain management in conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Facet Joint Injections: Procedure: Injection of anesthetic and/or corticosteroid into the facet joints of the spine. Applications: Used for pain relief in conditions affecting the facet joints, such as arthritis. Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Procedure: Injection of anesthetic near a peripheral nerve. Applications: Used to manage pain in specific regions of the body, such as the face (trigeminal nerve block) or limbs. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Procedure: Application of radiofrequency energy to a nerve to create a heat lesion, disrupting pain signals. Applications: Commonly used for chronic pain conditions, particularly in the spine. How Nerve Blocks Work When we experience pain, it’s usually caused by a specific group of nerves in the affected area. Nerve blocks work by targeting this specific group of nerves and stopping the pain signal from reaching the brain. This is achieved by injecting a local anesthetic medication into the area around the affected nerves, which numbs the area and provides pain relief. The Different Types of Nerve Blocks We Offer There are many types of nerve blocks, each targeting a specific group of nerves. Some of the most common nerve blocks that we offer include: Nerve Block TypeDescriptionCervical Nerve BlocksInvolve the injection of anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medication around nerves in the cervical (neck) region. These blocks are often used to diagnose and manage pain stemming from issues such as cervical disc herniation, arthritis, or nerve compression.Thoracic Nerve BlocksTargets the nerves in the thoracic (mid-back) region. By injecting medications near these nerves, often using fluoroscopic guidance, healthcare providers aim to alleviate pain associated with conditions like thoracic spine fractures, intercostal neuralgia, or post-herpetic neuralgia.Lumbar Nerve BlocksInvolve the injection of medications around the nerves in the lumbar (lower back) region. These blocks are commonly employed for diagnostic purposes to identify the source of lower back pain or as therapeutic interventions for conditions such as lumbar disc herniation or facet joint arthritis.Intercostal Nerve BlocksTarget the nerves running between the ribs. By injecting local anesthetics or steroids near these nerves, healthcare providers can provide pain relief for conditions like shingles (herpes zoster) affecting the intercostal nerves or post-surgical pain following thoracic surgeries. The Nerve Block Injection Procedure The nerve block injection procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic medication around the affected nerves, which usually takes only a few minutes to complete. In some cases, a nerve catheter may be used to deliver medication continuously to the affected area. This is done by inserting a tiny plastic tube into the area around the nerves, which can be left in place for several days. Benefits of Nerve Blocks Nerve blocks offer many benefits for managing pain caused by various medical conditions. Some of the key benefits include: Providing immediate pain relief Minimizing the use of pain medications Providing temporary pain relief for chronic pain sufferers Reducing the need for surgery in some cases Safety and Efficacy of Nerve Blocks First and foremost, nerve blocks are generally considered safe. Complications are rare, but as with any medical procedure, they can occur. Risks associated with nerve blocks include: Nerve damage  Infection  Bleeding  Allergic reactions  However, our highly trained and experienced medical professionals take every precaution to minimize these risks. While nerve blocks are generally safe, it is important to note that they can cause temporary discomfort or pain during the injection. However, this discomfort can be managed with the use of local anesthesia or a sedating medicine, which are administered to patients prior to the procedure. Nerve Blocks vs. Other Treatment Methods When it comes to treating pain, there are different treatment methods available, including nerve blocks. Nerve blocks provide the advantage of medication continuously delivered to the affected area, which can help manage pain for longer periods compared to other methods where the effect wears off after a few hours. Unlike other methods that provide generalized pain relief, nerve blocks target specific nerves responsible for causing pain. By targeting specific nerves, nerve blocks are more precise and effective in treating certain conditions, including chronic pain. Nerve blocks are typically performed in an operating room, and the procedure itself can take a few hours to complete. However, the duration of pain relief depends on the specific type of block performed. Treatment MethodsAdvantagesDisadvantagesMedication Continuously Delivered– Provides longer-lasting pain relief- Can be tailored to individual needs– May require catheter insertion- Risk of infectionNerve Blocks– Precise and effective in targeting specific nerves- Can be used to diagnose and treat pain– May require multiple injections- Risk of adverse effects like nerve damageOral Medications– Easy to administer- Available over-the-counter– Effect is not long-lasting- May cause side effects like stomach upset As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with nerve blocks, such as the possibility of nerve damage or adverse reactions to medication. However, these risks can be mitigated by consulting with a trusted medical provider specializing in pain management, like VISP. At VISP, we believe in a patient-centered approach to pain management where we work with our patients to develop a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help manage your pain. Start a Pain Free Life Today! At VISP, we understand the importance of pain management and the impact it has on the daily lives of individuals. That’s why we offer nerve block procedures as a solution to help provide temporary pain relief. By targeting specific nerves and using local anesthetics, we can help alleviate the discomfort associated with various conditions. We aim to make the process as comfortable as possible for our patients, providing them with the care and attention they deserve. Through nerve block procedures, we can help manage pain caused by nerve cells affected by various medical conditions. We advocate for temporary pain relief, and our goal is to improve our patients’ quality of life.  Contact us today to learn more about nerve block procedures and how we can help you achieve pain relief and management. FAQ What is a nerve block procedure? A nerve block procedure is a medical technique used to achieve temporary pain relief. It involves injecting a local anesthetic near a specific group of nerves responsible for causing pain. How do nerve blocks work? Nerve blocks work by targeting a specific group of nerves that transmit pain signals. By blocking the transmission of these signals, nerve blocks can provide temporary pain relief. What are the different types of nerve blocks? There are various types of nerve blocks commonly used in medical practice. Some examples include occipital nerve blocks, celiac plexus blocks, and stellate ganglion blocks. What does the nerve block procedure involve? The nerve block procedure may involve injecting a local anesthetic near the affected nerve or using a nerve catheter. In some cases, a tiny plastic tube may be used to deliver the anesthetic. How do nerve blocks provide pain relief? Nerve blocks provide pain relief by delivering a numbing medication to the affected area. This numbs the nerves and temporarily blocks the pain signals from being transmitted to the brain. Are nerve blocks safe? Nerve blocks are generally considered safe when performed by trained medical professionals. Safety measures are taken to minimize risks, and potential side effects are carefully monitored. How do nerve blocks compare to other treatment methods? Nerve blocks offer advantages such as continuous pain relief compared to other methods where the effect wears off after a few hours. They specifically target the nerves causing pain and can be performed in an operating room. What are the benefits of nerve block procedures? Nerve block procedures provide temporary pain relief, improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from various conditions. To learn more about the benefits of nerve block procedures, you can contact VISP, a trusted medical provider specializing in pain management.

What Is The Best Treatment for PVD in Legs? Peripheral vascular disease is a circulatory disease that affects the blood vessels in the extremities, such as the feet and legs. This condition occurs when a blood vessel becomes narrowed, blocked, or spasmed, resulting in reduced blood flow and potential complications. PVD can be a slow-progressing disorder. Here’s the good news though: timely treatment and intervention can greatly improve the quality of life of those affected. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs, symptoms, causes, risk factors, and explore the best treatment for PVD in legs to improve your condition and overall quality of life. Understanding PVD: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a complex circulatory condition that can have serious consequences for your health. It affects arteries, arterioles, and veins. All of these contribute to the body’s complex vascular systems.  Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels, link these systems together.  While PVD can occur anywhere in the body, it most commonly affects the extremities, such as the legs. It can cause discomfort, reduced mobility, and complications such as ulcers and injuries. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and causes is important for early diagnosis, prompt PVD treatment, effective management, and better overall health. Causes of PVD PVD’s leading cause is atherosclerosis, often referred to as the “hardening of the arteries”. This is caused by the gradual accumulation of calcium, cellular wastes, and fatty substances on the inner walls of arteries.  Over time this buildup causes plaques, which narrow the vessels and reduce blood flow to various parts of the body, especially the extremities. Blood vessel constriction can reduce oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, leading to fatigued legs, cramping pain, and non-healing ulcers. Risk Factors of PVD Several risk factors are associated with increased susceptibility to peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It is important to identify these risk factors for both prevention as well as effective symptom management. Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for PVD. It damages the blood vessels, causes atherosclerosis, and accelerates the progression of the disease. Smokers have a greater risk of developing peripheral vascular disease and experiencing its symptoms earlier than those who do not smoke.Diabetes: People who have diabetes are at a greater risk of developing PVD. Elevated blood glucose levels can damage the blood vessels and make them more susceptible to atherosclerosis and other circulatory issues.Age: PVD is a disease that primarily affects those over 60. As age advances, the risk of developing PVD increases.Prior Coronary Artery Disease: People who have had coronary artery diseases in the past are at a higher risk of developing PVD. Both conditions have similar risk factors and mechanisms.Obesity: Living with obesity can lead to atherosclerosis, and increase the risk of PVD.  Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for vascular health.Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity may lead to PVD and other health issues. Regular exercise helps to improve blood circulation and reduces your risk of developing vascular disorders.High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Hypertension causes blood vessels to be more vulnerable to damage and atherosclerosis. Uncontrolled high blood tension can worsen PVD symptoms.High Blood Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia): Elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and PVD.Family History: Genetic factors can influence PVD risk. Individuals with a familial history of PVD, heart disease, or related conditions have a higher risk of developing the disorder.Medical History: A history of previous strokes, heart attacks, or cardiovascular diseases may increase the risk of PVD as these conditions all share similar causes. [Related: What Is the Difference Between PAD and PVD?] Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms PVD often progresses slowly, and its symptoms can be subtle. The symptoms of PVD can vary widely, making early detection and intervention crucial: Rapid leg fatigue during activities.Leg and foot cramps, particularly when lying down.Hair growth reduction in legs.Numbness and tingling sensations in the hands or feet.Skin discoloration of the arms and legs, turning reddish-blue or pale.Weak or absent pulses in the arms and legs.Non-healing wounds or ulcers.Muscle discomfort, such as numbness or heaviness in leg muscles. PVD can lead to intermittent pain, coldness, muscular weakness, and, in severe cases, even gangrene. Understanding these symptoms and risk factors is critical to recognize when treatment may be required. How is Peripheral Vascular Disease Diagnosed? Proper diagnosis of PVD involves gathering relevant medical history information, performing a physical exam, and running various diagnostic tests. These may include the following: AngiogramsAnkle-brachial index (ABI) measurementsDoppler ultrasound flow studiesMagnetic resonance angiography (MRA)Treadmill exercise tests Healthcare professionals use these tests to assess the severity of PVD and recommend treatment plans accordingly. Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial in effectively managing PVD and avoiding complications. Treatment Approaches for PVD Finding an effective treatment for PVD requires an integrated approach tailored to the individual’s specific condition. Prominent treatment options include: Lifestyle Changes Lifestyle changes are an effective first defense against PVD, serving to both decrease risk factors and enhance blood circulation. Quitting smoking is crucial, as it’s a major risk factor. Cessation programs, medications, and support groups can all assist with quitting smoking successfully. Engaging in regular exercise, adopting a balanced diet low in saturated fats, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling co-existing conditions like diabetes and hypertension are important steps. Doctor-recommended walking regimens and leg exercises also help alleviate pain.  Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on blood vessels. Heart-healthy diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats have long been recommended to promote cardiovascular health.  Individuals living with PVD should consult healthcare professionals to treat co-occurring conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol issues. Medications Medication plays an integral part in managing PVD symptoms and reducing complications. Common medications include: Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs: Statins are commonly prescribed to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, prevent plaque buildup in arteries, and combat atherosclerosis.Antiplatelet Agents: Blood thinners, such as clopidogrel or aspirin, prevent platelets from clumping together on top of plaque buildup. This medication is prescribed primarily to help prevent blood clots.Blood Pressure Medications: Controlling high levels of blood pressure through medication helps to maintain arterial health.Medications for Leg Pain: Cilostazol may improve blood flow and relieve symptoms such as leg muscle pain or fatigue.Other medications: Depending on your condition, your doctor may also prescribe medications to manage blood sugar, blood pressure, and other co-occurring conditions. Minimally Invasive Procedures Minimally invasive procedures have become an increasingly popular way of managing PVD, providing effective alternatives to traditional surgery. These procedures are performed by interventional radiologists and may include: Angioplasty: This minimally-invasive procedure involves inserting a catheter with an inflatable balloon into the blocked artery. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and improve the blood flow. In some cases, a stent may be placed to keep the artery open. Atherectomy:  This procedure involves removing plaques from the blood vessel walls to increase blood flow. Atherectomy uses a balloon and a catheter equipped with a tool that cuts plaque to restore blood flow. Stent Placement: After an angioplasty, or atherectomy, stenting can be done to keep the treated artery wide open. This prevents the narrowing of the vessels treated. Stent placement involves the insertion of a mesh tube (stent) that keeps open treated arteries. Vascular Bypass Surgery For severe cases of PVD, surgical interventions may be required to bypass a blocked or narrowed artery and restore circulation more freely.  In severe instances, bypass surgery might even be required; healthy veins or synthetic tubes will be used to redirect blood around these obstructions. This allows blood to circulate more freely and improves circulation. Get the Best Treatment for PVD In Legs Peripheral vascular disease is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and appropriate treatment. Patients need to recognize signs, control risk factors, and receive appropriate treatment for PVD in the legs. Early intervention and adherence to treatment plans can improve the overall quality of life and cardiovascular health of PVD patients.  Consultation with healthcare specialists such as interventional radiologists and vascular specialists can provide customized treatment plans tailored to meet your needs. At VISP, your vascular health is our priority. If you or someone you know is suffering from possible symptoms of peripheral vascular disease and peripheral artery disease, don’t hesitate to get noninvasive treatments from our interventional radiologists! Visit us at vispdocs.com, or call 928.771.8477 for more information.