top of page

Medial Branch Block

The Medial Branch Block is an effective treatment for individuals experiencing chronic neck, back, or spine-related pain caused by facet joint dysfunction. This minimally invasive procedure provides targeted relief by blocking the nerves that transmit pain signals from the facet joints, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

What Is a Medial Branch Block?

A Medial Branch Block involves injecting a local anesthetic (and sometimes a corticosteroid) near the medial branch nerves that transmit pain signals from the facet joints in the spine. These small nerves are responsible for sending pain signals from the facet joints to the brain. By temporarily numbing or blocking these nerves, the procedure helps to identify the specific source of pain and provide relief from symptoms such as chronic neck, back, or radiating pain.

Why Choose a Medial Branch Block?

  • Targeted Pain Relief: Directly targets the nerves responsible for transmitting pain from the facet joints, providing specific and effective relief.

  • Minimally Invasive: Performed with a small needle under the guidance of imaging techniques, avoiding the need for large incisions.

  • Diagnostic and Therapeutic: Helps identify the exact source of pain while offering temporary relief for patients suffering from chronic pain.

  • Quick Procedure: The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and most patients can return to their daily activities the same day.

  • Non-Surgical: Offers a non-invasive option for managing spine-related pain, avoiding the need for surgery.

Conditions Treated with Medial Branch Block

  • Facet joint arthritis or degenerative changes in the spine

  • Chronic neck, back, or radiating pain not responding to conservative treatments

  • Spinal stenosis causing nerve compression in the cervical or lumbar spine

  • Sciatica-like symptoms originating from facet joint irritation

or

bottom of page