Nerve block injections utilize anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medications. These are injected into irritated nerve roots or neural structures. Dr. Hoang Minh Tan, from the Department of Neurosurgery and Spine at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, states that this technique is widely used for pain caused by nerve damage. Conditions treated include herniated discs, sciatica, chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

For herniated disc treatment, nerve block injections are performed under C-arm fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance. This guidance helps doctors precisely locate the affected nerve root, ensuring accurate drug delivery. This approach enhances treatment effectiveness and minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

A doctor advises a patient with a herniated disc on nerve block treatment. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Dr. Tan notes that this method serves as one conservative treatment option before surgery. It can also be a primary treatment for symptom control in patients indicated for surgery but unable to undergo it due to advanced age, underlying medical conditions, or high surgical risks.

The method's goal extends beyond pain relief. It aims to facilitate early patient mobilization, enable rehabilitation, maintain daily activities, and improve quality of life. Effective pain management can also prevent prolonged immobility, muscle atrophy, and reliance on painkillers.

Dr. Tan cautions that the effectiveness of nerve block injections varies among patients. It depends on the pain's cause, the degree of nerve compression, illness duration, and co-existing medical conditions. While this method does not eliminate the herniated disc, it can reduce inflammation and pain, improve motor function, and delay or avoid surgery in suitable cases.

To enhance long-term treatment effectiveness and reduce symptom recurrence, patients must adhere to a rehabilitation program. They should also maintain a healthy weight, exercise, adjust lifestyle habits that increase spinal pressure, and sustain treatment results.

Dr. Tan advises patients to undergo nerve block injections at hospitals with specialized Neurosurgery and Spine departments. Self-treatment or procedures at unqualified facilities can reduce treatment efficacy and increase complication risks, such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage.

Hieu Nguyen