Stellate Ganglion Block

A Stellate Ganglion Block is a minimally invasive injection that targets a bundle of sympathetic nerves located in the lower neck. These nerves help regulate pain, blood flow, and other autonomic functions in the head, neck, and upper extremities. By blocking abnormal nerve activity, this procedure can reduce chronic pain, improve circulation, and sometimes relieve symptoms such as swelling or color changes in the arm or hand. For many patients, it provides both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits in the management of sympathetic-mediated pain.

Quick Facts

  • Setting: Outpatient, image-guided
  • Time: ~20–30 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local with optional light sedation
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge; temporary hoarseness or eye droop may occur
  • Duration of relief: Varies; may last weeks to months and can be repeated

Who it helps

  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) affecting the upper extremities
  • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
  • Shingles pain affecting the face, neck, or arm
  • Post-surgical or post-traumatic nerve pain
  • Vascular insufficiency or circulation issues in the upper extremities
  • Hot flashes and certain PTSD-related conditions (under evaluation)

How it works

The stellate ganglion is part of the sympathetic nervous system and can contribute to pain by sending overactive nerve signals. During the procedure, your provider injects a small amount of anesthetic medication around the stellate ganglion using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance. This temporarily blocks abnormal nerve activity, helping to “reset” pain signaling and improve blood flow in the affected areas.

What to expect

  • Before: Your provider will review your history and imaging to confirm candidacy. Fasting may be required for several hours prior if sedation is planned.
  • During: You’ll lie comfortably with your head slightly turned. After cleaning and numbing the skin, a fine needle is guided to the target area under imaging, and the anesthetic medication is injected.
  • After: You’ll be monitored briefly and may notice warmth, temporary nasal congestion, or mild drooping of the eyelid on the treated side—signs that the block is taking effect. These effects typically resolve within a few hours.

Benefits & risks

Benefits:

  • Can relieve chronic pain in the head, neck, and upper limbs
  • May improve circulation and skin temperature
  • Useful as a diagnostic tool for sympathetic-mediated pain
  • Outpatient procedure with minimal downtime

Risks:

  • Temporary hoarseness or eye drooping (Horner’s syndrome)
  • Mild swallowing difficulty, lightheadedness, or nasal congestion
  • Rare risks include infection, bleeding, or nerve injury

Is it right for me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Persistent pain or swelling in the face, neck, or arm not improved with conservative care
  • ✅ Diagnosed or suspected sympathetic-mediated pain (CRPS or RSD)
  • ✅ Good candidate for outpatient image-guided procedures
  • ✅ Able to participate in physical therapy following pain reduction

Alternatives at PCET

FAQs

  • How long will the relief last? Relief may last from days to months; repeat blocks may provide longer benefit.
  • Will I have side effects? Temporary hoarseness, eye drooping, or facial warmth are common and expected signs the block is working.
  • Is it painful? Most patients feel only mild pressure; local anesthetic minimizes discomfort.
  • Can it help diagnose my pain? Yes—response to the block helps determine if pain is sympathetically mediated.
  • Is it covered by insurance? Most plans cover stellate ganglion blocks when medically necessary and ordered by a physician.

📞 Call to Schedule

Ready to learn if a Stellate Ganglion Block could help relieve your pain? Call (865) 579-0552 to schedule your appointment today.