Nerve Block Injections in Queens, NY

What Is a Nerve Block Injection?

A nerve block injection is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers anesthetic medication directly to a group of nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. In addition to relieving pain, this procedure can also reduce inflammation and help your physician identify the source of chronic discomfort.

At Axis Pain and Sports Management, Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov, MD specializes in interventional pain procedures, including nerve blocks, to help patients achieve long-lasting relief and restore quality of life.

Types of Nerve Block Injections

Nerve blocks can be used both for diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the location and type of pain, Dr. Abrakhimov may recommend one of the following:

• Sympathetic nerve blocks – Used for chronic pain conditions such as Raynaud’s syndrome, shingles, or complex regional pain syndrome.
  
• Suprascapular nerve blocks – Target the shoulder nerves to treat arthritis, frozen shoulder, or rotator cuff injuries.
  
• Intercostal nerve blocks – Placed under the ribs to treat thoracic or abdominal wall pain.
  
• Occipital nerve blocks – Target nerves at the base of the skull to relieve migraines, occipital neuralgia, and chronic tension headaches.
  
• Iliohypogastric nerve blocks – Help with pain in the lower back, pelvis, groin, and thighs.
• Pudendal nerve blocks – Provide relief for pelvic pain by interrupting pain signals from the pudendal nerve.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is performed in-office and typically lasts less than 30 minutes.
  
• You will lie comfortably while the injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
  
• Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, Dr. Abrakhimov carefully positions the needle near the targeted nerve.
  
• A small amount of contrast dye confirms correct placement, followed by the injection of anesthetic medication.
  
• Mild soreness at the injection site is normal but usually subsides quickly. Most patients notice pain relief almost immediately.

Benefits of Nerve Block Injections

• Rapid pain relief in targeted areas such as the spine, neck, hips, shoulders, and pelvis
  
• Helps confirm the source of chronic pain for accurate diagnosis
  
• Minimally invasive, non-surgical, and performed on an outpatient basis
  
• May reduce the need for opioid pain medications
  
• Improves mobility and overall quality of life
  

If appropriate, Dr. Abrakhimov may also recommend complementary treatments such as radiofrequency ablation for longer-lasting results.