A paravertebral nerve block is a targeted injection used to manage pain in the chest, abdominal wall, or upper back by numbing the spinal nerves as they exit the vertebral column. This minimally invasive procedure can be highly effective for treating both acute post-surgical pain and chronic pain conditions such as nerve entrapment or thoracic radiculopathy. By calming the nerves near the spine, the treatment helps interrupt pain transmission while preserving motor function.
It’s commonly used as part of a multi-modal pain management strategy, especially for patients seeking non-opioid alternatives or more precise pain relief.
What is it?
A paravertebral nerve block targets nerves as they exit the spine to treat pain in the chest or abdominal area. It’s useful for post-surgical pain and certain chronic pain conditions.
How is it performed?
Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance, local anesthetic is injected near the targeted nerves. The procedure takes about 30 minutes.
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Treatment Benefits
Paravertebral nerve blocks provide localized pain relief with minimal impact on surrounding muscles or function. They can significantly reduce discomfort after surgery or injury, allowing patients to move more freely and recover more comfortably. The procedure is quick, typically well-tolerated, and can be repeated if needed for long-term relief.
Who Can Benefit From This Treatment
This treatment is ideal for patients with chronic chest wall or abdominal pain, intercostal neuralgia, or post-surgical discomfort following thoracic or abdominal procedures. It may also be used diagnostically to identify the source of pain in complex cases. A full clinical evaluation helps determine if this nerve block is the right fit for your symptoms and treatment goals.
Learn more about Paravertebral Nerve Block by contacting the Minimally Invasive Spine and Pain Institute—our team is here to help you explore your options.
Aftercare for Paravertebral Nerve Block
After a paravertebral nerve block, it’s common to experience temporary numbness, mild soreness, or pressure at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within a few hours to a couple of days. Some patients may feel immediate pain relief, while others notice gradual improvement over the following days. Most people can resume light activity shortly after the procedure, but it’s best to avoid any strenuous movement during the initial recovery period.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Follow these guidelines to support healing after a paravertebral nerve block:
- Rest for the remainder of the day following the injection
- Use ice packs as needed to ease swelling or discomfort at the injection site
- Avoid strenuous activity or twisting movements for 24–48 hours
- Resume gentle stretching or walking as tolerated
- Report any unusual symptoms such as persistent numbness, weakness, or fever to your provider