Did you know that an estimated 20.4% of U.S. adults experience chronic pain, and 7.4% have high-impact chronic pain that limits daily life? As these numbers rise, so does the need for safe, effective pain management options. Traditionally, patients have relied on oral pain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and prescription opioids. But for many, nerve block injections are emerging as a safer, more targeted alternative.
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, our Georgia-based team provides non-surgical, interventional treatments to help patients relieve pain and regain function.
But which option works better—and when should each be used? Read on as we explore the differences in how these treatments work, their long-term effects, and when one may be better than the other.
How Nerve Block Injections Work
Nerve block injections are minimally invasive procedures that use a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs, to block pain signals at their source. By injecting medication near a specific nerve or group of nerves, pain transmission to the brain is interrupted.
Several types of nerve blocks are commonly used in interventional pain management, including:
- Lumbar sympathetic blocks for lower back and leg pain
- Genicular nerve blocks for chronic knee pain
- Celiac plexus blocks for abdominal pain from cancer or pancreatitis
- Stellate ganglion blocks for upper extremity or facial pain
These injections are often performed under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance for accuracy and safety.
How Oral Pain Medications Work
Oral pain medications are absorbed through the digestive system and enter the bloodstream, affecting the entire body. They are categorized into:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce inflammation and relieve mild to moderate pain.
- Acetaminophen: Often used for headaches, muscle aches, and fever, but has minimal anti-inflammatory effects.
- Prescription opioids: Used for moderate to severe pain but carry a risk of dependency, respiratory depression, and other serious complications.
- Adjuvant medications: Includes antidepressants and anticonvulsants used for nerve pain.
While oral medications are convenient and accessible, their systemic effects often limit long-term use, especially in patients with chronic pain.
Effectiveness in Managing Acute And Chronic Pain
Nerve Blocks:
- Highly effective for acute post-surgical pain, such as after orthopedic or abdominal procedures.
- Used for chronic conditions like arthritis, sciatica, or nerve compression syndromes.
- Relief may last from several hours to several months, depending on the type of block.
- Helps patients delay or avoid surgery and reduces the need for daily medication.
Oral Medications:
- Best for short-term pain relief, such as acute dental pain, headaches, or mild muscle injuries.
- Less effective for localized nerve pain or advanced chronic pain conditions.
- Often requires frequent dosing and has a higher risk of systemic side effects over time.
In many cases, oral medications are used in conjunction with other treatments, but may fall short as a stand-alone solution for complex pain conditions.
Comparing Side Effects and Impact on Daily Life
When choosing a pain management option, it’s important to consider how each treatment might affect your day-to-day function, alertness, and comfort.
Nerve Block Injections:
- Typically, allow patients to stay alert and active
- May cause mild numbness or soreness near the injection site
- Rarely disrupt daily activities or long-term routines
- Help patients engage more fully in physical therapy or rehabilitation
Oral Pain Medications:
- Some can cause drowsiness or fatigue, limiting work or activity
- Long-term use may impact digestion, mood, or energy
- May require scheduling around frequent doses throughout the day
Because nerve blocks target pain at the source, they often allow patients to maintain a higher level of daily function compared to systemic medications.
Are Nerve Blocks Better Than Medications for Chronic Pain?
You may want to consider a nerve block if:
- Your pain is localized (e.g., back, knee, abdomen)
- Oral pain medications no longer provide sufficient relief
- You want to avoid opioids or reduce medication use
- You’re preparing for or recovering from surgery
- You're exploring chronic pain relief new treatments
Patients with abdominal pain, nerve pain, or severe pain that hasn't responded to conventional therapies may benefit most from nerve blocks.
When Are Oral Pain Medications the Right Choice?
Oral medications may still be appropriate if:
- You’re managing mild to moderate pain from an injury or illness
- You need temporary relief while waiting for further treatment
- You’re not a candidate for nerve block due to bleeding risk or infection
In some cases, medications like NSAIDs or acetaminophen may be combined with other therapies for a comprehensive approach to pain control.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between nerve block injections and oral pain medications depends on several factors:
- Choose nerve blocks if your pain is severe, localized, and hasn’t responded to medications.
- Consider oral medications for mild to moderate pain or short-term use.
- Talk to a pain management specialist if you're unsure — both options may be used together as part of a multimodal plan.
How The Physicians Can Help
At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we specialize in targeted, non-surgical solutions for pain. Our board-certified providers carefully evaluate each patient’s condition to determine whether nerve block injections, oral medications, or a combination of both offer the best outcome.
We treat a wide range of pain conditions from nerve block for back pain to chronic abdominal pain, always with a focus on restoring function and quality of life.
Relieve Chronic Pain with Expert Care from The Physicians
Nerve block injections provide precise, longer-lasting pain relief with fewer systemic risks compared to oral pain medications. The right treatment depends on your unique needs.
If you’re looking for effective pain management beyond daily medications, our team is here to help. Contact The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists and
schedule an appointment to learn more about our interventional options.
