Nerve blocks are injections of medication onto or near nerves, which block pain signals. Nerve blocks are used to relief pain from a variety of conditions, from a broad range of locations on the body. The medications that are injected include local anesthetics, steroids, and opioids.

LUMBAR FACET JOINT / MEDIAL BRANCH BLOCK
Medial branch nerves are small nerves that extend out from the facet joints in the spine, carrying pain signals to the brain. This procedure is primarily diagnostic, meaning if pain relief from the injection is good, it helps Dr. Tariq determine what further treatment is best.

CERVICAL FACET JOINT / MEDIAL BRANCH BLOCK
Similar to a lumbar facet joint block, the cervical facet joint block stops pain signals coming from the upper spine in the neck. Cervical medial branch nerves are located in a bony groove in the neck.

THORACIC FACET JOINT / MEDIAL BRANCH BLOCK
Thoracic medial branch nerves are located in the mid-back or upper back.

SELECTIVE NERVE ROOT BLOCK
A selective nerve root block is an injection of a local anesthetic at a specific nerve root. Nerve roots emerge from places along the spine called foramina, and sometimes bulging discs, bone spurs, misalignment, etc. can pinch these openings. A selective nerve root block targets the affected foramina.