Peripheral Nerve Injections: Your Questions Answered

September 15, 2024

A doctor injecting a needle into the peripheral nerve of someones spine.

Chronic pain can take a heavy toll, impacting not just your body but your mind and spirit as well. No matter if you’re suffering from nerve pain, muscle issues, or lingering discomfort from surgery, finding relief can feel like an uphill battle. Thankfully, there’s hope—peripheral nerve injections offer an effctive path to pain management.

Peripheral nerve injections are a powerful solution for those battling chronic pain. These minimally invasive procedures target specific nerves, offering targeted relief that can greatly enhance your quality of life. Today, Southside Pain Specialists will explore how peripheral nerve injections work, their benefits, and what to expect if you’re considering this treatment option.

How Do Peripherial Nerve Injections Work?

Peripheral nerve injections target specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain. These injections contain a combination of local anesthetics and corticosteroids, which work together to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.

The local anesthetic provides immediate relief by temporarily blocking the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals. This effect typically lasts for several hours, allowing you to experience a temporary reprieve from your discomfort.

Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory agents that help reduce swelling and inflammation around the nerve. By reducing inflammation, they alleviate pressure on the nerve, leading to longer-lasting pain relief.

Peripheral nerve injections are typically administered under imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound. This ensures precise needle placement and maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment.

What Conditions Can be Treated with Peripheral Nerve Injections?

Peripheral nerve injections are effective in managing a wide range of chronic pain conditions, including:

Neuropathic Pain

This type of pain arises from damage or dysfunction in the peripheral nervous system. Examples include diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia (shingles pain), and trigeminal neuralgia.

Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy, caused by compression or irritation of spinal nerve roots, can lead to radiating aches, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Common examples include sciatica and cervical radiculopathy.

Musculoskeletal Pain

Peripheral nerve injections can provide relief for various musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and sports-related injuries.

Post-Surgical Pain

Some individuals may experience persistent pain after undergoing surgical procedures, such as joint replacements or spinal surgeries. Peripheral nerve injections can help manage this type of discomfort.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

This condition, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, can cause severe, chronic pain often triggered by an injury or trauma. Peripheral nerve injections may help alleviate the symptoms associated with CRPS.

Answering Your Other Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Procedure Painful?

While the thought of an injection may cause some apprehension, peripheral nerve injections are generally well-tolerated. Your pain management doctor will take measures to ensure your comfort during the procedure, such as administering anesthesia or light sedation. You may experience some mild discomfort or pressure during the injection, but it is typically brief and manageable.

Will I Need Multiple Peripheral Injections?

The number of peripheral nerve injections you may require can vary depending on your specific condition and response to the treatment. Some individuals may experience significant relief after a single injection, while others may require a series of injections spaced out over time. Your pain doctor will closely monitor your progress and determine the appropriate course of action based on your individual needs.

How Long Do The Effects Of A Diagnostic Peripheral Nerve Injection Typically Last?

The duration of pain relief provided by a diagnostic peripheral nerve injection can vary. The local anesthetic component typically wears off within several hours, while the corticosteroid’s anti-inflammatory effects can provide relief for several weeks or even months. However, the effects are temporary, and you may require additional injections or alternative treatments to manage your chronic pain effectively.

Finding a Pain Managment Doctor in Bimingham, AL

Chronic pain is complex and multifaceted; finding the right solution requires a comprehensive approach. While peripheral nerve injections can be an effective component of your pain management strategy, it’s essential to work closely with an experienced pain doctor to develop a long-term treatment plan.

At Southside Pain Specialists, you’ll find our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable pain management specialists. We are committed to helping you find lasting relief from your chronic pain. With a patient-centered approach, we take the time to understand each patient’s unique situation and craft a personalized treatment program.

Don’t let chronic pain dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your well-being by scheduling a consultation with Southside Pain Specialists.


Find Lasting Relief with Nerve Injections: Contact Southside Pain Specialists in Birmingham, AL

It’s time for you to experience relief from chronic pain. Our expert team at Southside Pain Specialists in Birmingham, AL, can help you achieve better quality of life through effective pain management treatments like nerve injections. 

Don’t let pain hold you back any longer—schedule a consultation with us today to explore how nerve injections can help you regain control and enjoy life to the fullest. 

To schedule your appointment with Southside, fill out our online contact form or call us today at (205) 900-3927.