Medial Branch Blocks
Medial branch blocks are diagnostic injections that anesthetize the small nerves supplying the facet joints to determine if facet joint pain is the source of back or neck pain.
Who Is This For?
Used for patients with suspected facet joint pain causing axial back or neck pain. A positive response to medial branch blocks confirms the diagnosis and guides candidacy for radiofrequency ablation.
What to Expect
Performed under fluoroscopic guidance in an outpatient setting. Small amounts of local anesthetic are injected near the medial branch nerves at each target level. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. Pain relief is assessed over the following hours.
Risks to Know
Risks include temporary soreness, infection, and rare nerve injury. The procedure is generally very well tolerated.
Providers Who Perform Medial Branch Blocks
Sports medicine specialists near you
See all →
Find a Provider Who Performs This Procedure
Connect with a doctor, physical therapist, or imaging center near you.
Find a Provider for Medial Branch Blocks