The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that control movement and sensations of the shoulders, arms, and hands. It connects to the spinal cord along vertebra C5-C8 and T1. Injury or damage to this part of the spinal column may result in a pinched brachial plexus or chronic pain that shoots down the neck and into the arms and hands. In some cases, pain may be so severe that it restricts mobility and strength as well as results in chronic pain. Nerve block injections for brachial plexus pain are offered by Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates in Corinth. Find out if brachial plexus block injections are right for you.

What is a brachial plexus block injection?

A brachial plexus block injection is a minimally invasive treatment for nerve damage or pain emanating from the brachial plexus nerve. Common conditions that may benefit from this type of injection include spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tendonitis.

The Procedure

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which means you remain awake the entire time and you go home afterward. The targeted area is cleansed, and then a local anesthetic and steroid medication is injected into the brachial plexus nerve. The anesthetic helps numb the nerves to reduce pain. Known as a short-term pain relief, brachial plexus blocks may relieve some of the pain that you experience but does not cure the condition causing your pain. To receive the block, you first undergo a thorough examination and review of your medical history to ensure this is the right procedure for you. Then the procedure itself begins by having you lie on your back and a local anesthetic is placed into the targeted area to help numb the area before the actual injection is performed. Then, the nerve block is administered.

Before Your Procedure

Inform your pain management doctor if you take any medications. Be sure to stay hydrated in the days and hours before your treatment. We recommend arranging a driver to take you home afterward because your arm(s) and hand(s) may be numb for a few hours. Wear comfortable clothing that allows us to access the injection site easily. Get plenty of rest the day before and after your treatment so that your body can heal quicker.

After Your Procedure

Plan on resting for the remainder of the day and avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. Our pain management specialist in Corinth will let you know when you can resume normal activities after your procedure. You may experience some swelling or tenderness at the injection site. Apply ice packs for 20 minutes at a time throughout the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling and pain. Results may last for weeks or months, but usually repeat injections are necessary to provide long-term relief.

Risks and Complications

Nerve blocks bear little to no risks, but some risks may occur. Nerve damage or infection are rare complications associated with brachial plexus block injections. However, choosing a trusted and experienced pain management specialist in Corinth helps reduce your risk of complications or long-term side effects.

Brachial Plexus Block Injections for Pain Management in Southwest Tennessee and North Mississippi, including Tupelo, MS and Jackson, TN

If you experience chronic pain in your hands, arms, or shoulders and suffer from reduced mobility, then brachial plexus block injections may be right for you. To learn more about this procedure or to find out if you are a candidate, contact Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates by calling (662) 284-8565.