Main Content
Top of the page
A nerve block is a local anesthetic injected into or around a nerve or into the spine to temporarily prevent the nerve from relaying pain. A nerve block may cause temporary muscle paralysis or a loss of all feeling in the affected area or in the surrounding area.
Nerve blocks can be used to determine the source of pain, to treat painful conditions, and to predict how pain will respond to long-term treatments. Nerve blocks are also used for short-term pain relief after some surgeries and other procedures. They may be used for anesthesia during some smaller procedures, such as finger surgery.
Current as of: November 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Nancy Greenwald MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.