Cervical Medial Branch Blocks for Pain Management
A cervical medial branch block (MBB) is a minimally invasive procedure used in the treatment of pain from the facet joints in the neck. The facet joints are joints that work as hinges connecting the bones of the spinal column together. The facet joint has a fluid that acts as a lubricant and helps with bending of the spine. The facet joints can produce a deep aching pain when the joint is damaged, either from wear and tear, advanced age, or injury or trauma.
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Cervical Medical Branch Blocks Treated Conditions
- Neck arthritis – Neck arthritis is a condition that affects the joints and surrounding structures of the neck. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion in the neck. Cervical Medial Branch Block injections can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief, making it an effective treatment for neck arthritis.
- Spondylosis – Spondylosis is arthritis that affects the spine and can cause pain, stiffness, and other symptoms. It is usually caused by the degeneration of the intervertebral discs, which are the cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. Cervical medial branch block procedures are a common treatment for this condition and aim to reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and allow for improved mobility.
- Facet Joint Arthropathy – More common among older people, facet joint arthropathy is a form of arthritis in which the facet joints of the spine become inflamed. When this occurs, the patient may experience extreme pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Treatment options like Cervical Medial Branch Blocks techniques are minimally invasive and can significantly relieve pain and restore proper function.
Why Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers?
If you are looking for a trusted clinic to provide Cervical Medial Branch Blocks, consider Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers. Our New Orleans-based pain center is staffed by highly experienced physicians specializing in interventional pain management. We use the latest technology and procedures to ensure maximum patient comfort and effectiveness. Our objective is to provide the best possible care for our patients.
Cervical Medial Branch Block FAQ
Following the procedure, patients may experience a decrease in their neck pain. Pain relief may be immediate or can take up to 48 hours. In some cases, the effect may last up to several weeks. Patients should also be aware that they may experience temporary side effects after the procedure, such as mild soreness or bruising at the injection site as well as mild headaches.
A cervical medial branch block provides temporary pain relief, and the injection itself is usually not painful. The initial insertion of the needle may cause a minor sensation of pressure. The anesthetic medication may cause a slight burning sensation during the injection. Once the needle is in place, most patients report feeling some pain relief within a few minutes.
A medical branch block typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This includes the time needed to prepare the patient, take X-rays or scans, administer anesthesia, and complete the actual block.