Cervical Median Branch Blocks

What is Cervical Median Branch Block?

Cervical median branch blocks are specialized injections targeted at the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the joints in your neck. These blocks can provide both diagnostic insights and therapeutic relief, acting as a bridge to a pain-free life.

What Can It Treat?

The procedure is designed to address chronic neck and shoulder pain, often stemming from:

Arthritis

Whiplash injuries

Spondylosis

Other degenerative conditions affecting the neck joints

How is the Procedure Administered?

Preparation: You’ll lie down on your side, and I’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the target area.

Guidance: Utilizing X-ray fluoroscopy, I’ll guide a thin needle to the median branch nerves that are suspected to be the pain source.

Injection: I’ll inject a mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroids, blocking the nerves’ ability to send pain signals.

The entire process is generally completed within 30 minutes and has been known to provide significant relief.

What Are the Risks?

Like all medical procedures, cervical median branch blocks carry some risks. These include:

Infection at the injection site

Bleeding

Temporary increase in pain

Allergic reaction to the medication used

Rest assured, these risks are rare, and I take every precaution to minimize them.

If you’ve been dealing with persistent neck or shoulder pain and conventional treatments haven’t provided relief, a cervical median branch block might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Call our office today to set up an appointment with Dr. Edward Rubin today.