If you’re dealing with chronic nerve pain, everyday activities can feel overwhelming. Diagnostic nerve blocks offer a quick and effective way for a pain management specialist Los Angeles, CA, to identify the source of your pain and determine the best treatment plan. Here’s everything you need to know about diagnostic nerve blocks and how they can help you tackle your chronic pain.
Understanding Chronic Nerve Pain
Chronic nerve pain can stem from a variety of conditions and often disrupts daily life with burning, tingling, or sharp shooting sensations. Accurate diagnostics are essential to identify the direct cause, which may include:
- Sciatica
- Neuropathy
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Spinal injuries
- Diabetes-related nerve damage
- Infections affecting the nerves
What Are Diagnostic Nerve Blocks?
Diagnostic nerve blocks are minimally invasive injections used to pinpoint the origin of nerve pain. By temporarily numbing specific nerves, these procedures help your doctor confirm which nerve is responsible for your discomfort.
How Diagnostic Nerve Blocks Work
Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens during a nerve block procedure:
- Pre-procedure preparation: Your pain management specialist Los Angeles CA will review your medical history and symptoms to determine the target nerve.
- Precise imaging: Ultrasound or fluoroscopy guides the placement of the injection.
- Injection: A small amount of anesthetic is injected near the suspected nerve, temporarily numbing it.
- Monitoring effects: You’ll report any changes in the location or intensity of your pain, helping your Los Angeles doctors confirm the diagnosis.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Diagnostic nerve blocks are generally safe, but there are some potential risks, including mild discomfort, temporary numbness, or bruising at the injection site. These are typically short-lived and manageable.
The Benefits of Diagnostic Nerve Blocks:
- Identifies the exact source of pain for better treatment planning
- Provides immediate feedback to guide the next step
- Avoids the need for invasive surgical procedures
Take Control of Your Pain Today
Our experienced team of pain management specialists Los Angeles CA specializes in advanced treatments such as diagnostic nerve blocks and PRP injections to help you combat chronic pain. Schedule a consultation with Interventional Pain Doctors now and regain control of your daily comfort.