Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB) in the Cervical Spine

A Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB) in the cervical spine is a precise, image-guided injection used to both diagnose and treat neck, shoulder, and arm pain caused by irritation or compression of a specific spinal nerve. By delivering a small amount of anesthetic and steroid medication around the affected nerve root, this procedure can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and help determine the exact source of nerve-related symptoms.

Quick facts

  • Setting: Outpatient, image-guided
  • Time: ~20–30 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local with optional light sedation
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild soreness possible for 1–2 days
  • Purpose: Diagnostic and therapeutic for cervical nerve irritation

Who it helps

  • Cervical disc herniation or bulging disc
  • Foraminal stenosis or narrowing of nerve pathways
  • Radiculopathy (pain radiating from the neck into the shoulder or arm)
  • Nerve compression from arthritis or degenerative changes
  • Patients being evaluated for surgical or interventional options

How it works

Each spinal nerve exits the spinal canal through a small opening called a foramen. When this nerve becomes irritated by a herniated disc or bone spur, it can cause sharp, radiating pain. During an SNRB, your provider uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to precisely place a thin needle near the affected nerve root. A small amount of anesthetic is injected to temporarily numb the nerve, and a corticosteroid may be added to reduce inflammation and swelling. The immediate pain response helps confirm whether that nerve is the source of your symptoms.

What to expect

  • Before: Your provider will review your imaging and medical history to identify the target nerve. You may be asked to stop certain medications before the procedure.
  • During: You’ll lie comfortably on your stomach or side. After numbing the skin, a small needle is guided under X-ray to the specific nerve root. Once positioned, medication is injected around the nerve.
  • After: You’ll rest briefly in recovery before going home. Some temporary numbness or weakness may occur, followed by gradual improvement as inflammation decreases over the next few days.

Benefits & risks

Benefits:

  • Pinpoints the exact nerve causing pain
  • Provides targeted relief for radiating neck, shoulder, or arm pain
  • Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
  • Helps guide further treatment decisions (surgical or nonsurgical)

Risks:

  • Temporary soreness or numbness
  • Infection, bleeding, or headache (rare)
  • Allergic reaction to medication (rare)
  • Temporary increase in pain before improvement

Is it right for me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Neck and arm pain caused by nerve irritation or compression
  • ✅ Diagnostic confirmation of nerve-related symptoms needed
  • ✅ Failed to improve with physical therapy or medication
  • ✅ Comfortable with an image-guided outpatient procedure

Alternatives at PCET

FAQs

  • When will I notice relief? Relief may occur within a few days as inflammation subsides.
  • How long does relief last? Results vary; relief may last weeks to months depending on the condition.
  • Is this mainly diagnostic or therapeutic? It can serve both purposes—identifying the painful nerve and reducing inflammation.
  • Is it painful? Most patients feel only mild pressure; local anesthetic minimizes discomfort.
  • Is it covered by insurance? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover SNRBs when medically necessary.

📞 Call to Schedule

If you’re experiencing radiating neck, shoulder, or arm pain caused by nerve irritation, a Selective Nerve Root Block may help identify and relieve the source of your pain. Call us at 865-934-2567 to schedule your appointment today.