Sympathetic Nerve Block

Sympathetic Nerve Block Injections are advanced nonsurgical diagnostic and pain relief treatments performed by the region’s leading pain management experts at Nassau Anesthesia Associates, P.C., a medical group affiliated with Winthrop-University Hospital on Long Island, NY.

In addition to providing anesthesia care for patients before, during, and after surgery, Nassau Anesthesia Associates has anesthesiologists with advanced training in the field of pain management. We utilize the most advanced nonsurgical techniques for treating acute and chronic pain that hasn’t responded to more conservative treatments.

Sympathetic Nerve Blocks

A sympathetic nerve block is an injection of local anesthetic used to diagnose damage in the sympathetic nerve network along the spine. These nerves are located on either side of the lumbar section of the spine, and control some of the involuntary functions of the body, such as sweating, blood flow, and digestion.

Benefits of Sympathetic Nerve Block Injections

While it is mainly used as a diagnostic test, a sympathetic block can also be used for temporary pain relief. Some of the benefits include:

Pain relief in the lower back and lower extremities

Reduced swelling

Allows your physician to better understand the source of your pain

Improved mobility and lower function

Improvement in color

Increased blood flow

Decreased amount of excessive sweating

The Sympathetic Nerve Block Procedure

Before and during the procedure, you can expect to:

  • Meet with one of our experienced pain management specialists so your physician can explain the procedure in detail

  • Go over your medical history, allergies, or medications you’re taking

  • Fast for up to six hours prior to the procedure

  • Have an intravenous line inserted and have vital signs closely monitored

  • Receive a sedative for relaxation during the procedure

  • Receive a local anesthetic in your back to numb the area

Your doctor will use an x-ray for guidance to the correct area for the sympathetic nerve block injection. You’ll need to arrange a ride home after the procedure, but you’ll be able to resume normal daily activities after a day of rest.

Meet our Elite Team of Anesthesiologists and Pain Management Specialists

The highly skilled anesthesiologists at Nassau Anesthesia Associates, P.C. have several additional years of anesthesia specialty training such as cardiac, pediatric, or intensive care medicine.

Our affiliation with renowned Winthrop-University Hospital provides our patients with complete access to Winthrop’s vast resources including physicians and state-of-the-art operating rooms and facilities.

The Winthrop-University Hospital Advantage

Nassau Anesthesia Associates’ affiliation with renowned Winthrop-University Hospital provides our patients with complete access to Winthrop’s vast resources including physicians and state-of-the-art operating rooms and facilities.