Does pain management perform nerve root blocks?

A nerve root block places local anaesthetic, sometimes with an anti-inflammatory medicine, beside a nerve as it leaves the spine. It may be considered when pain travels from the neck or back into an arm or leg and the examination or imaging points toward a particular nerve. Imaging guidance can help the clinician position the needle and avoid nearby structures.

The block may have a diagnostic purpose, a treatment purpose, or both. It does not automatically remove a disc problem or other cause of nerve irritation. Tell the clinician about weakness, numbness, previous spine surgery, blood-thinning medicines, allergies, diabetes, pregnancy and infection symptoms before proceeding.

Bring imaging and a clear account of where symptoms travel, including tingling, numbness or weakness. Confirm which nerve and spinal level are being considered. Ask about medicine instructions, sedation, driving and activity afterward. Do not alter prescribed blood-thinning treatment without specific medical advice. Note changes in pain, sensation and strength after the block and report them at follow-up.

Seek urgent assessment for rapidly increasing weakness, difficulty walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, fever with severe back or neck pain, or breathing difficulty. After the procedure, contact the clinic urgently for progressive weakness, severe headache, heavy bleeding, spreading redness or a major allergic reaction.

Ask: Which nerve appears irritated? What evidence supports this target? Is the block diagnostic, therapeutic or both? What other options could help? Which changes after the procedure require immediate contact?