Cervical Sympathetic Nerve Block

What Are Sympathetic Nerves?

The sympathetic nerves or autonomic system are specific nerves that control bodily functions such as digestion, heart rate, sweating and pupil dilation. If these nerves are not functioning correctly, you can have pain on either side of the body.

How Does It Work?

A cervical sympathetic nerve block can be extremely helpful because it temporarily blocks the specific nerves around the cervical area. The main function of a sympathetic nerve block is to distinguish if your pain is coming from the sympathetic nerves. A cervical sympathetic nerve block is performed to diagnose and subsequently treat pain in your hand, arm and shoulder. It is possible that the pain originates from the nerves in your neck which are close to the spine.

How is the Procedure Performed?

At the beginning of the procedure, the patient is placed on the radiolucent table in a comfortable position. If receiving a cervical block, the patient will remain on their back. The skin will be cleansed with a sterile solution. The physician will then numb the area where the injection is to be given. After the skin is anesthetized, the physician uses a very thin needle under radiologic guidance to inject a small amount of dye into the area of the sympathetic nerves. Once the correct position is confirmed, the physician will inject medication containing an anesthetic, cortisone and normal saline.

After the Procedure

Following the procedure, the patient will be taken to recovery where they will be monitored for a short period of time. Patients will be asked to report the percentage of pain relief they have had. If adequate pain relief is achieved, patients will have subsequent injections in the next one to two weeks.

What to Consider Post Treatment

Prior to undergoing the procedure, patients are able to eat a light breakfast. If you are a diabetic, please be sure to follow your medical regimen as before. Continue to take daily medications for hypertension or diabetes. Do not take anti-inflammatory medication or pain medication the day of the procedure.

If you are currently taking blood thinners including Plavix or Coumadin, the office must be notified.