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Intercostal Nerve Blocks for Chest & Abdominal Pain Relief

Intercostal Nerve Blocks

Intercostal nerve blocks are a minimally invasive procedure used to alleviate pain in the chest and abdominal areas. This type of regional anesthesia involves injecting medication into the intercostal nerves, which can provide targeted relief for conditions such as shingles, post-surgical pain, and rib fractures.

At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists in Atlanta, GA, we specialize in providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from chronic chest pain. Our team of experts is trained in using ultrasound guidance for precise and accurate injections to provide the most effective results.

If you are living with persistent chest or abdominal pain, speak to one of our specialists about whether an intercostal nerve block may be a beneficial treatment option for you.

Don't let pain dominate your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore how we can contribute to enhancing your quality of life.

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Leading Pain Relief Specialists in Atlanta, GA

Intercostal Nerve Blocks For Chronic Chest And Abdominal Pain

Intercostal nerve blocks are an effective way to relieve pain in the chest, ribs and upper abdominal region. It involves injecting a local anesthetic into the intercostal space, which is the space between two adjacent ribs. This blocks the nerve signals from that area to the brain, which effectively reduces or eliminates pain.

This is commonly used for a variety of conditions such as:

  • Post-operative pain following chest or abdominal surgery
  • Rib fractures
  • Costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone)
  • Shingles (viral infection affecting nerves)

Some common symptoms of chronic chest pain may include:

  • Sharp or stabbing pain in the chest
  • Difficulty taking deep breaths
  • Tenderness and swelling in the chest area
  • Limited mobility due to pain

At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, our team of experts is trained in using ultrasound guidance for precise and accurate injections. This ensures that the medication is delivered directly to the affected nerves, providing immediate pain relief.

The procedure is relatively simple and can be performed in a doctor's office or outpatient setting.

  • The patient lies on their side with the affected area facing up
  • Cleansing and sanitizing the skin around the affected area
  • Numbing of the injection sites with a local anesthetic
  • Using imaging technology (such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy) to guide the needle to the targeted nerves
  • Injecting medication to numb the intercostal nerves, potentially repeated at multiple locations for maximum pain relief

This treatment is usually completed within a few minutes and patients can go home immediately afterwards. The effects of the medication can last for several hours, allowing patients to resume their normal activities without discomfort. This treatment option also helps determine if a more permanent solution, such as radiofrequency ablation, is needed.

If you are experiencing chronic chest pain, don't let it disrupt your life any longer. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team at The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists to discuss the benefits of intercostal nerve blocks and find relief from your pain.

Let us help you improve your overall quality of life and mobility by addressing the root cause of your discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is intercostal nerve block safe?

Yes, intercostal nerve blocks are considered safe and generally well-tolerated. The procedure is minimally invasive and has minimal side effects such as temporary numbness or bruising at the injection site. However, it is important to discuss any potential risks with your healthcare provider .

Who is a good candidate for an intercostal nerve block?

Individuals suffering from chronic chest pain caused by various conditions such as rib fractures, shingles, or post-surgical pain may benefit from intercostal nerve blocks. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.

Do you accept insurance for intercostal nerve blocks?

Yes, we do. At The Physicians, we believe everyone should have access to advanced care for chronic chest pain, and we gladly accept insurance from various providers in the Atlanta area.   Visit our Insurance page to see our list of accepted providers.

How can I find the best specialist for intercostal nerve block injections for chronic chest pain?

To find a specialist in intercostal nerve block injections for chronic chest pain, you can contact our team at The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists. We will provide essential information and assist you in the process. Schedule your appointment with us today using our easy online tool.