Medial Branch Nerve Blocks

Overview

Medial Branch Nerve Blocks are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat chronic pain in the neck, upper back, and lower back. The medial branch nerves supply the small facet joints in the spine, and irritation or inflammation in these nerves can result in persistent and sometimes debilitating pain. This procedure can be both diagnostic, helping to identify the pain source, and therapeutic, providing pain relief for those experiencing facet joint-related pain.

Performed by highly trained specialists, including spinal neurosurgeons like Mr. Irfan Malik, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks are a safe, effective way to manage pain and potentially avoid more invasive surgical procedures.

Symptoms

Medial Branch Nerve Blocks may be recommended for patients who experience:

• Chronic neck, mid-back, or lower back pain
• Pain that worsens with movement or specific postures
• Localized pain near the facet joints in the spine
• Referred pain in the shoulders, buttocks, or thighs
• Pain that is unresponsive to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication.

Causes

Facet joint pain that leads to medial branch nerve irritation may be caused by:

• Arthritis or degeneration of the facet joints
• Spinal injuries, including whiplash and sprains
• Age-related wear and tear in the spine
• Poor posture or repeated strain from certain activities
• Inflammation or overuse of the facet joints

These conditions can place stress on the facet joints and, subsequently, on the medial branch nerves, resulting in chronic pain.

When to See a Consultant

If you have been experiencing persistent spinal pain that limits your daily activities and does not respond to conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or pain medication, it may be time to consult a spinal specialist. Spinal neurosurgeon Mr. Irfan Malik can assess your condition and determine if a Medial Branch Nerve Block could be a beneficial option for diagnosing and treating your pain.