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Published on:
June 4, 2026

Understanding Nerve Blocks: Fast, Targeted Relief for Chronic Pain at Genesis Wellness and Pain

Katlin McFerrin
BSN, RN
Medical Reviewer

When pain becomes constant — burning, aching, radiating, or sharp — it often comes from irritated or inflamed nerves. These nerves send nonstop pain signals to the brain, making even simple movements feel overwhelming. For many patients, the fastest and most effective way to calm these overactive nerves is through a nerve block.

At Genesis Wellness and Pain, nerve blocks are one of the most versatile and powerful tools we use to diagnose and treat chronic pain. They are minimally invasive, fast‑acting, and highly targeted — giving patients meaningful relief without relying on long‑term medications or major surgery.

What Is a Nerve Block?

A nerve block is an injection that delivers medication directly around a specific nerve or group of nerves. The goal is simple: interrupt pain signals at their source.

Depending on the type of block, the injection may include:

  • A local anesthetic (for immediate relief)
  • A steroid (to reduce inflammation)
  • A combination of both

Because nerve blocks are guided by imaging, they are extremely precise — targeting the exact nerve responsible for pain.

Why Nerve Blocks Are So Effective

Nerve blocks offer several major benefits:

1. Fast Relief

Many patients feel improvement within minutes to hours.

2. Highly Targeted

Instead of treating the whole body, nerve blocks treat the exact nerve causing pain.

3. Minimally Invasive

The procedure takes only a few minutes and requires no downtime.

4. Reduced Medication Use

By calming the nerve directly, nerve blocks often reduce the need for daily pain medications.

5. Diagnostic Power

If a nerve block relieves pain, it confirms the exact source — guiding future treatment like RFA or SCS.

6. Part of a Larger Plan

Nerve blocks fit seamlessly into a personalized treatment strategy that may include injections, RFA, physical therapy, or advanced interventions.

Types of Nerve Blocks We Offer

At Genesis Wellness and Pain, nerve blocks are tailored to each patient’s condition and symptoms. Common types include:

Peripheral Nerve Blocks

Used for pain in the arms, legs, hands, feet, or joints.

Occipital Nerve Blocks

Ideal for occipital neuralgia, migraines, and nerve‑based head pain.

Trigeminal Nerve Blocks

Used for facial pain and trigeminal neuralgia.

Facet Joint / Medial Branch Blocks

Used to diagnose and treat chronic neck or back pain originating from the spine.

SI Joint Nerve Blocks

Used for sacroiliac joint pain and lower‑back instability.

Sympathetic Nerve Blocks

Used for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and severe nerve hypersensitivity.

Each block is chosen based on the patient’s symptoms, imaging, and physical exam findings.

What Conditions Do Nerve Blocks Treat?

Nerve blocks are effective for a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Sciatica
  • Joint pain
  • Nerve pain
  • Headaches and facial pain
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Post‑surgical nerve pain
  • Arthritis‑related pain

Because nerve blocks target the source of pain, they are often the first step in a long‑term relief plan.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Nerve blocks are quick, comfortable, and performed in an outpatient setting.

During your visit:

  • You’ll lie comfortably while the area is cleaned and numbed
  • Your provider uses imaging to guide the needle
  • Medication is injected around the targeted nerve
  • You can go home shortly afterward

Most patients resume normal activities the same day.

How Long Does Relief Last?

Relief varies depending on the condition and the type of block:

  • Some patients experience relief for days to weeks
  • Others experience relief for months
  • If pain returns, the block can be repeated
  • If relief is strong but temporary, RFA may be the next step for longer‑lasting results

Nerve blocks are both a treatment and a diagnostic tool — helping us determine the best long‑term plan for each patient.

Why Nerve Blocks Fit the Genesis Wellness and Pain Philosophy

Genesis Wellness and Pain is built on a commitment to:

  • Minimally invasive care
  • Targeted treatments
  • Reduced medication dependence
  • Faster recovery
  • Personalized plans

Nerve blocks align perfectly with this approach. They provide immediate relief, guide future treatment decisions, and help patients regain mobility and function without major interventions.

Targeted Pain Relief

Nerve blocks offer a fast, effective, and minimally invasive way to calm irritated nerves and restore quality of life. At Genesis Wellness and Pain, we use nerve blocks as part of a comprehensive, patient‑centered plan designed to help you move better, feel better, and live with less pain.