Written by Achuta Uppu, MD. Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Nerve Blocks?
A pain management doctor, a doctor who treats long-lasting pain, or a radiologist, a doctor who uses imaging, will most likely give a nerve block. An anesthesiologist, a doctor who gives pain-blocking medicine, or a surgeon often gives one before surgery. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A nerve block is the injection of a local anesthetic or another drug into or around a nerve to block pain. The shot may turn off a pain signal that comes from one place in the body. It may also lower inflammation in that area. An epidural is a common nerve block used to treat pain during childbirth. Doctors may use imaging, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT), to place the needle in the best spot.
Why a doctor might recommend it
People with sudden or long-lasting pain might have a nerve block to get temporary pain relief. Doctors also give nerve blocks before surgery to help control pain afterward. In cancer care, nerve blocks help control pain that cannot be controlled in other ways.
How to prepare
A nerve block usually needs no special preparation. Common steps include the following.
- Tell your doctor if you could be pregnant.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home.
- You may need to change into a gown.
What happens during it
You lie on a table so the doctor can reach the spot to be injected. The doctor finds the right spot by touch or imaging. The area is cleaned with antiseptic solution. The doctor puts the needle in to a set depth. The medicine goes as close to the problem nerve as possible.
You will probably feel a pinch when the needle goes in. If the needle is near a major nerve, such as the sciatic nerve, tell the doctor if you feel a sudden jolt of pain. This means the needle is too close to the nerve and must be moved.
Recovery
The procedure is often done on an outpatient basis, but some people may need to stay in the hospital afterward. You rest for 15 to 30 minutes so the medicine can take effect. The effects of the injection are usually immediate, but a nerve block is only a temporary fix.
Risks and side effects
Risks of a nerve block include the following.
- Infection at the injection site
- Bleeding
- Accidental delivery of medicine into the bloodstream
- Unexpected spread of medicine to other nerves or the spinal canal
- Hitting the wrong nerve when nerves are close together
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting or loss of consciousness, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A radiologist or another pain management doctor will most likely perform the nerve block. An anesthesiologist or surgeon often gives a nerve block before surgery. The doctor who gives the injection follows up with you to see how you are doing and decide if you need more care.
Common questions
Does a nerve block hurt?
It may hurt briefly. You will probably feel a pinch when the needle goes in, and you should feel less discomfort as soon as the medicine is delivered.
How long does a nerve block last?
It depends on the medicine used. A local anesthetic typically lasts a few hours or days. Steroids act more slowly but last longer, sometimes for weeks or months.
Will one nerve block fix my pain?
Not always, because some people need several nerve blocks before they get long-term relief. Some people never benefit and may need a different treatment. Typically, the effects of a nerve block are temporary and offer little to no long-term relief.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance.
Sources
- RadiologyInfo.org - Nerve Blocks
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - Pain
- National Cancer Institute - Cancer Pain (PDQ)
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
