Nerve Blocks in Loganville, GA
Peripheral nerve blocks and stellate ganglion blocks for chronic pain and PTSD
When pain is driven by specific nerves, targeted nerve blocks can interrupt those pain signals and provide meaningful relief. At Southern Comfort Pain & Wellness, we perform both peripheral nerve blocks and stellate ganglion blocks for a range of chronic pain conditions.
Peripheral Nerve Blocks
A peripheral nerve block involves injecting anesthetic medication near a specific nerve or group of nerves outside the spinal column. This blocks pain signals from that nerve, providing relief for conditions affecting the arms, legs, or trunk. Peripheral nerve blocks can be both diagnostic (to identify the pain source) and therapeutic (to provide longer-lasting relief).
Stellate Ganglion Block
The stellate ganglion is a cluster of nerves (part of the sympathetic nervous system) located at the base of the neck. A stellate ganglion block involves injecting anesthetic medication near this nerve cluster. This specialized treatment is used for:
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)
- Chronic pain in the arm, hand, or face
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (shingles pain)
- PTSD symptoms (emerging therapeutic application)
- Certain types of vascular insufficiency
PTSD Treatment with Stellate Ganglion Block
Recent research has shown promising results using stellate ganglion blocks to treat symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The theory is that PTSD causes increased activity in the sympathetic nervous system, and blocking the stellate ganglion can "reset" this hyperactivity. While research is still evolving, many patients report significant improvement in anxiety, hypervigilance, and sleep disturbances after treatment.
Conditions Treated with Nerve Blocks
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)
- Neuropathy
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (shingles pain)
- Chronic arm, hand, or face pain
- PTSD symptoms
- Phantom limb pain
- Chronic headaches
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a nerve block last?
This varies depending on the type of block and your condition. Diagnostic blocks may last hours. Therapeutic blocks often provide weeks to months of relief. Stellate ganglion blocks for PTSD may provide benefits lasting months.
Are nerve blocks painful?
A local anesthetic numbs the area before the block. Most patients feel pressure but tolerate the procedure well.
Is the stellate ganglion block for PTSD covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and insurer. Some plans cover stellate ganglion blocks for approved pain indications. Contact our office to verify your specific coverage.
How many nerve block treatments will I need?
This depends on your condition and response. Some patients benefit from a single block, while others need a series. Dr. Kissel will develop a treatment plan based on your specific situation.
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Serving nerve block patients in Loganville, Snellville, Grayson, Monroe, Conyers, Dacula, Lawrenceville, Bethlehem, and surrounding communities across Gwinnett, Walton, and Newton counties.
Could a nerve block help your pain?
Schedule a consultation to explore your treatment options.