Spinal nerves pass through a small opening in the spine, and if these are pinched or impinged upon, shooting radiating pain, tingling or numbness along the nerve path can result.

You may be a candidate for nerve root block treatment if you have pain stemming from nerves running along the spine.

If you are taking a blood thinner, you may need to discontinue this prior to treatment. Please contact our booking team and consult with your doctor for further instruction.

Once you arrive at the clinic you will be asked to complete a few forms pertaining to the appointment. To allow adequate time for this, please do arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. You may be instructed to change into a gown for your procedure.  

You will be taken back to a private exam room for your procedure. One of our technologists and a Radiologist will review your previous diagnostic imaging, discuss the reason for your referral to Beam Radiology, and explain the details of the recommended pain management treatment.

Communication is very important to Beam, and you will be given opportunity to ask any questions you may have before beginning. You will be asked to lay down on the exam table, face down, and your back will be exposed. The targeted area will be cleaned and sterilized. To ensure effectiveness and accuracy, fluoroscopy will be used in real-time to guide the injection. Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray imaging. The Radiologist will advance the needle to the foraminal space where the nerve exits the spine, and an anaesthetic and corticosteroid (cortisone) will be injected.

Following your injection, you will be directed to our recovery area for a brief observation period. One of our Nurses will review the post-procedure care with you prior to you leaving. You will not be permitted to drive immediately following this procedure, please arrange transportation to and from your appointment.

Patients can expect to experience decreased levels of pain if the targeted nerves in your nerve root block treatment are the source of your pain. 

This procedure is performed using a sterile technique, rare complications include allergic reaction, infection, and bleeding. If you have diabetes, you may experience a temporary elevation in you blood sugar because of the corticosteroid (cortisone) medication.

Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid hot tubs, pools, or baths for 48 hours. You can shower normally. 

You can perform your normal daily activities but avoid strenuous activities for the next 3-4 days following the treatment.