A nerve root block is the injection of steroid and local anesthesia to diagnose and treat radicular pain or sciatica.

Preparing for a nerve root block:

• A representative will contact you prior to your appointment to review your medications and registration information.
• If you are taking blood thinners (Lovenox, Plavix, Heparin, or Coumadin), stop this medication 5 days before your procedure. You may resume the medication the day after your procedure.
• You will need to arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
• The nerve area to be studied will be injected with contrast dye and perhaps a steroid.
• Fluoroscopy, CT or MRI Images will be taken after the injection.
• You may experience some soreness at your injection site for up to 24 hours. This can be managed with over the counter analgesics such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Cold ice packs for 3-4 times daily for several days are effective also.
• You can return to light activity the day of your procedure and avoid strenuous activity for the next 3 days.

If you develop fever or severe pain contact our office at 352-333-7847 (7VIP) or call your referring physician. After hours or on weekends, go to the nearest emergency room or call North Florida Regional Medical Center at 352-333-4000 and ask for the Radiologist on call.