Article
How long does a nerve block last?
Pain relief from a nerve block can last a few days, several weeks, months or longer, depending on the type of block and the person. For headache, an occipital nerve block usually starts working within 20 to 30 minutes, and relief lasts anywhere from several hours to several months. Some people need repeat injections.
What is a nerve block?
A nerve block is an injection of medication close to a nerve or group of nerves to give temporary pain relief. The medication is usually a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with an anti-inflammatory steroid. Nerve blocks are used to treat pain, to find where pain is coming from, and to control pain during and after surgery.
Why does the relief last longer for some people than others?
Results vary considerably from person to person. How long relief lasts depends on the type of nerve block, the reason it was given and how your nerves respond. Some people get relief from a single injection; others need several treatments.
How long does an occipital nerve block last for headache?
An occipital nerve block targets the nerves at the back of the head and is used for migraine, occipital neuralgia, cluster headache and other headaches. When it works, pain usually improves 20 to 30 minutes after the injection, and the relief can last from several hours to several months. Lasting relief for some conditions requires a series of injections.
Related service at INPMNerve blocksAnesthetic injections near a nerve to relieve headache and painWhat should you expect right after a nerve block?
You will usually rest for 15 to 30 minutes while the medication takes effect, and then go home. If you received sedation, someone else needs to drive you. Soreness, redness or swelling where the needle went in is common and short-lived.
When should you talk to your clinician?
Contact your clinician if relief wears off sooner than expected, if your pain pattern changes, or if you notice signs of infection or bleeding at the injection site. Keeping a simple log of when relief started and how long it lasted helps your clinician decide whether to repeat the block or try another approach.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
01Why did my nerve block wear off quickly?
Nerve blocks are often a temporary fix, and how long they work varies from person to person. Some people get lasting relief from one injection, while others need several. Tell your clinician how long your relief lasted, because it helps plan the next step.
02Can a nerve block be repeated?
Yes. Some people get relief from a single injection, while others need a series of nerve blocks. Your clinician decides how often based on the type of block and how you responded.
Referral required
Start with a referral from your doctor
New patients are seen by referral. Your primary care physician can fax the referral to (707) 980-6692 or send it through EPIC, and our office will call you to schedule.
- Referral fax (707) 980-6692
- EPIC referral
- We call you to schedule