Stellate Ganglion Blocks in Louisiana
A stellate ganglion block is an injection that numbs a group of sympathetic nerves in the front of your neck. It helps providers diagnose and treat a number of nerve-related pain problems in the head, neck, chest, and arms. LA Pain Doctor performs stellate ganglion blocks for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is the Stellate Ganglion?
The stellate ganglion is a cluster of nerves located on each side of the neck, near the voice box. These nerves are part of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls automatic functions such as blood flow, sweating, and skin temperature. In some pain conditions, these nerves become overactive and amplify pain signals. Blocking them can interrupt that cycle and allow pain to settle down.
Conditions a Stellate Ganglion Block May Help
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) of the arm or hand
- Nerve pain in the face, head, neck, or upper extremity
- Phantom Pain after amputation of an arm
- Shingles pain affecting the head, neck, or arm
- Poor circulation and pain in the arms or hands
What to Expect
You will lie on your back with your head slightly tilted. After numbing the skin, your provider uses fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance to place a thin needle near the stellate ganglion and injects local anesthetic. The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Afterward, it is normal to notice temporary warmth in the arm, a droopy eyelid, a hoarse voice, or a stuffy nose on the treated side. These effects show that the nerves have been successfully blocked and typically fade within a few hours.
Because sympathetic nerve pain often responds best to repeated treatment, your provider may recommend a series of injections. Many patients pair the blocks with physical therapy to restore movement and function.
Related Treatments
For sympathetic nerve pain in the legs, a lumbar sympathetic blocks works in a similar way. Patients whose pain does not respond to blocks may benefit from a spinal cord stimulator trial. Learn more about living with CRPS or explore our neck pain treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stellate Ganglion Block
What does a stellate ganglion block treat?
It is commonly used for complex regional pain syndrome, nerve pain in the head, neck, or arms, phantom limb pain, and certain circulation problems.
Is a stellate ganglion block painful?
The skin is numbed beforehand, and most patients feel only brief pressure during the injection.
What side effects are normal?
Temporary warmth in the arm, a droopy eyelid, hoarseness, or a stuffy nose on one side are normal and usually resolve within hours.
How many injections will I need?
Many patients need a series of blocks for the best results. Your provider will recommend a schedule based on your response.
Can I eat after the procedure?
Your provider may ask you to wait until any hoarseness or throat numbness wears off before eating or drinking.
How long does relief last?
Relief varies. Some patients experience pain relief that lasts much longer than the numbing medicine, especially with a series of injections.
Where can I get a stellate ganglion block?
LA Pain Doctor performs stellate ganglion blocks at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Quiet Overactive Nerve Pain
Find out if a stellate ganglion block can help. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.