A nerve root block is an interventional pain management technique in which a targeted injection of a local anesthetic, usually combined with a corticosteroid, is administered around a specific nerve root at the point where it exits the spinal canal, with the aim of reducing inflammation and pain caused by compression or irritation of the nerve root.
The procedure is usually performed under fluoroscopic or computed tomography (CT) guidance to ensure accurate placement of the needle at the desired level. It is commonly used in cases of radiculopathy caused by disc herniation, foraminal stenosis, or other causes of nerve root compression, both in the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine.
In addition to its therapeutic role, a nerve root block is also used as a diagnostic tool, as temporary pain relief following the injection helps confirm the specific nerve root as the source of symptoms, particularly in cases where imaging findings are unclear.
The technique is generally considered safe; however, like any interventional procedure, it carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, or temporary worsening of pain. The relief provided may be temporary or, in some cases, long-lasting, and it is often used as a complementary measure within a broader conservative treatment program before considering surgical intervention.