If you’re scheduled for a nerve block injection, you may be wondering how to prepare, what the procedure involves, and what to expect afterward. Nerve blocks are an effective, non-surgical option used to relieve pain by interrupting pain signals traveling along specific nerves. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain in your back, neck, or extremities, proper preparation can help improve your outcomes and comfort during the process.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we offer advanced pain management care across the greater Atlanta area, including our Marietta location. Our expert team, led by Dr. Randy Rizor helps patients relieve pain and restore function with personalized treatment plans. If you're scheduled for a nerve block injection, we're here to guide you through each step—from preparation to recovery. Schedule your appointment today to get started.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to prepare for your injection, what to expect, and how to recover smoothly.
What Is a Nerve Block Injection?
A nerve block injection is a targeted procedure that uses a local anesthetic—sometimes in combination with a steroid or anti-inflammatory medication—to block pain signals from a specific nerve or group of nerves. Nerve blocks are often used to manage chronic pain, nerve pain, or pain following an injury or surgery.
There are several types of nerve blocks offered at our Marietta clinic, including genicular nerve blocks, lumbar sympathetic blocks, intercostal nerve blocks, and stellate ganglion sympathetic We will determine the most appropriate option based on the source of your pain—whether it’s leg pain, back pain, or upper body discomfort
Nerve blocks are commonly used to:
- Provide temporary pain relief
- Aid in diagnosis by identifying pain sources
- Support physical therapy by reducing discomfort
- Delay or avoid the need for surgery
Before Your Appointment: Pre-Procedure Instructions
To ensure your nerve block injection is performed safely and effectively, your care team will provide personalized guidance. Below are pre-procedure instructions that may apply:
Dietary Restrictions
Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 to 8 hours before your appointment if sedation is planned. You may be allowed a small sip of water to take approved medications.
Medications
Provide a full list of current medications, especially blood thinners, diabetes medications, or any drugs that affect your immune system.
Do not stop or adjust any medications unless your provider instructs you to do so.
Medical History
Inform us of any allergies, particularly to anesthetics or contrast dyes.
Be prepared to share information about previous surgeries, chronic conditions, or any recent health changes.
Transportation
Arrange for someone to drive you home after your appointment if you will be receiving sedation. Temporary numbness or drowsiness may impair your ability to drive safely.
What to Expect During the Nerve Block Procedure
Your procedure will take place at one of our Marietta-area clinics in a safe, controlled setting. Here’s what typically happens:
- Positioning: You’ll lie down comfortably depending on the injection site.
- Cleansing and Prep: The area will be sterilized to minimize infection risk.
- Guided Injection: Using imaging tools such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, your provider will guide the needle precisely to the target area.
- Injection: The local anesthetic and other medications are injected to block pain signals from the targeted nerves.
- Observation: You may be monitored briefly after the procedure before being discharged.
Most nerve blocks are completed in 15 to 30 minutes, and discomfort is typically minimal. You may begin to feel pain relief within minutes to a few hours depending on the type of block.
Aftercare and Recovery: What to Do Post-Procedure
Recovery after a nerve block injection is typically fast, but following your care team’s instructions will help ensure the best results and reduce any discomfort.
What to Expect:
- You may feel temporary numbness, tingling, or heaviness near the injection site.
- Some mild soreness or swelling is normal and should fade within a day or two.
- Pain relief may begin shortly after the procedure or take a few hours, depending on the medications used.
Post-Care Tips:
- Rest for the remainder of the day, especially if sedation was used.
- Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.
- Use a cold pack to reduce any soreness at the injection site.
- Keep the area clean and dry as instructed.
- Track your pain levels and how long relief lasts to help your provider evaluate the effectiveness of the injection.
If any unusual symptoms occur—such as fever, severe weakness, or excessive swelling—contact your provider promptly.
Get Relief and Answers from Our Marietta Pain Specialists
Proper preparation and aftercare can make a big difference in your comfort and recovery. If you're ready to move forward with confidence, our team at The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists is here to support your journey to relief.
Book your consultation today at our Marietta office to speak with a board-certified provider about nerve block injections and other non-surgical pain solutions designed for your needs.
