What is nerve root block done with?

The local anaesthetic temporarily numbs the targeted nerve area and can help the clinician understand whether that nerve is contributing to your pain. The corticosteroid is an anti-inflammatory medicine intended to calm irritation around the nerve. A small amount of fluid is placed beside the nerve rather than into the spinal cord. Imaging guidance helps the clinician position the needle accurately. The exact medicine, dose, and approach depend on the spinal level, your symptoms, allergies, medicines, and health history.

Tell the treating team about blood-thinning medicines, diabetes, infection, allergies, pregnancy, and previous reactions to injections. Follow the instructions about eating, drinking, and arranging transport. Afterward, follow the activity advice you receive and track changes in pain, strength, or sensation. Numbness may affect movement briefly, so protect the area until normal feeling returns. The injection is one part of a broader plan that may include physiotherapy or activity changes.

Contact the clinic promptly for increasing redness, swelling, drainage, fever, or pain that is worsening rather than settling. Seek urgent medical help for new or worsening leg or arm weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, severe headache, breathing trouble, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Ask which nerve is being targeted, why both medicines are recommended, what temporary effects are expected, how your regular medicines should be managed, and when to call if symptoms change.