Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB) is an advanced pain management procedure designed to diagnose and treat pain caused by nerve root irritation or compression in the spine. It is commonly used for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and radiculopathy, where nerve inflammation leads to radiating pain in the back, legs, or arms.
At Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre, we specialize in precise, minimally invasive techniques like SNRB to provide long-term pain relief and restore mobility. Our experienced pain management specialists ensure safe and effective treatment tailored to your needs.
Understanding Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB)
SNRB is a targeted injection of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication near a specific spinal nerve root. The procedure serves two key purposes:
- Diagnostic – Helps pinpoint the exact nerve causing pain by temporarily numbing it. If the pain subsides after the injection, the identified nerve is likely the source of discomfort.
- Therapeutic – Reduces inflammation around the affected nerve, providing significant pain relief and improving mobility.
SNRB is commonly performed in the cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine, depending on the patient’s symptoms.
When is SNRB Recommended?
This procedure is beneficial for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic Back or Neck Pain – Pain that radiates from the spine to the arms or legs, often due to nerve compression.
- Herniated Discs – When a disc bulges and presses against a spinal nerve, causing sharp or shooting pain.
- Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal leading to nerve irritation.
- Sciatica – Pain that radiates down the leg due to irritation of the sciatic nerve.
- Radiculopathy – Nerve pain, tingling, or weakness extending into the limbs due to nerve compression.
If conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications fail to provide relief, SNRB is often recommended as a minimally invasive alternative.
How is SNRB Performed?
SNRB is an outpatient procedure performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precision. The process typically takes 20–30 minutes and involves the following steps:
1. Patient Positioning
The patient is comfortably positioned on an X-ray table, either lying face down for lumbar injections or on their back for cervical injections.
2. Skin Preparation & Local Anesthesia
The area to be treated is sterilized, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin and minimize discomfort.
3. Needle Placement
Using fluoroscopic guidance, the doctor carefully inserts a thin needle near the suspected nerve root.
4. Contrast Dye Injection
A contrast dye is injected to confirm the exact location and ensure accurate placement of the medication.
5. Medication Injection
A combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid is administered near the nerve root. The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the steroid reduces inflammation over time.
6. Post-Procedure Monitoring
Patients are observed for a short period before being discharged with aftercare instructions.
What to Expect After SNRB?
- Immediate Relief – Many patients experience temporary pain relief immediately due to the anesthetic.
- Long-Term Improvement – The steroid may take a few days to a week to reduce inflammation and provide sustained relief.
- Mild Discomfort – Some soreness or tenderness at the injection site may occur but typically resolves within a day or two.
- Gradual Mobility Restoration – As pain decreases, patients can engage in physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve posture.
The duration of relief varies; some experience months of pain reduction, while others may need repeat injections for continued improvement.
Benefits of Selective Nerve Root Block
- Minimally Invasive – No incisions or major surgery required.
- Targeted Pain Relief – Directly addresses the affected nerve, maximizing effectiveness.
- Quick Recovery – Patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
- Diagnostic Precision – Helps determine the exact nerve causing pain before considering more invasive treatments.
- Avoids or Delays Surgery – Can be an alternative to spine surgery for certain conditions.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
While SNRB is a safe procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Mild discomfort at the injection site
- Temporary numbness or weakness in the treated area
- Infection (rare but possible)
- Minor bleeding or bruising
- Allergic reaction to medications (very rare)
Patients with underlying conditions such as diabetes or bleeding disorders should inform their doctor before the procedure.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for SNRB?
SNRB is recommended for individuals who:
- Have persistent nerve-related pain that has not responded to conservative treatments.
- Need precise pain relief to continue with physical therapy.
- Want to avoid or delay spinal surgery.
- Require diagnostic confirmation of the pain source before undergoing additional interventions.
Those with active infections, bleeding disorders, or severe medical conditions may need alternative treatment options.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
- Rest for the First 24 Hours – Avoid strenuous activities immediately after the procedure.
- Apply Ice Packs – Helps reduce soreness at the injection site.
- Monitor Symptoms – Report any unusual pain, swelling, or fever to your doctor.
- Resume Normal Activities Gradually – Light movement is encouraged, but heavy lifting should be avoided for a few days.
- Follow Up as Advised – Your doctor may recommend additional injections or therapy for sustained pain relief.
Why Select Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre?
If you suffer from severe back pain due to nerve compression, timely intervention is crucial. At Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre, we offer advanced interventional pain management techniques, including vertebroplasty, nerve blocks, and minimally invasive spine procedures, performed by highly specialized pain management physicians and interventional radiologists.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert-Led Treatments – Our specialists are experienced in performing precise, safe, and effective procedures.
- Advanced Technology – We utilize state-of-the-art imaging guidance to ensure accurate nerve targeting.
- Comprehensive Pain Management – We provide personalized treatment plans to address your unique needs.
- Compassionate Care – From diagnosis to recovery, we offer professional and supportive guidance at every stage.
- Minimally Invasive Solutions – We focus on the least invasive yet most effective options for long-term pain relief.
At Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre, our goal is to help restore mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your quality of life.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free life.