Stellate Ganglion Block

This is used when severe tissue bone and nerve damage has occurred to the upper extremities (arms). The pain produced is also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. A small injection along the base of the neck will interrupt and inhibit the severe pain from reaching the spinal column and being transmitted to the brain.

Stellate ganglion blocks are also used to see if blood flow can be improved in those patients with circulation problems related to vascular disease. Stellate ganglion blocks may be therapeutic (to relieve pain) and/or diagnostic (to determine the source of your pain). If effective, your doctor may recommend a series of these blocks 1-2 weeks apart which may help give you more long-term pain relief.