Denver Intercostal Nerve Root Block
The intercostal nerves run along the lower border of the ribs. These nerves control the intercostal muscles, which assist in breathing, and provide sensation to the skin in the chest, back and abdomen. These nerves can be involved with pain from many causes such as: intercostal neuralgia (abnormal nerve pain), zoster or shingles, costochondritis (inflammation of the ligaments or muscles in the chest wall) or rib fractures.
The purpose of the procedure is to anesthetize these intercostal nerves and provide pain relief, which may be temporary or permanent.
Prior to the procedure a pain physician will perform a history, physical examination and evaluate the patient’s pain problem. This injection is performed along the affected rib. X-Ray guidance is sometimes used to assist in placement. The procedure usually takes up to thirty (30) minutes and can be associated with mild to moderate discomfort. Sedation, however, is rarely required. All patients are monitored appropriately throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
The response to the intercostal injection varies from patient to patient. These injections are often performed as a series, however, that determination is made after the patient, pain physician, and the referring physicians confer.
Possible complications are listed on the Consent for Procedure Forms. You may experience a significant decrease in pain and this change may be long lasting. However, it is also possible that the pain may return with less intensity or the same intensity as prior to the injection. Results vary from patient to patient.
Intercostal Nerve Root Block In Denver & Colorado Springs
At MD Pain, our physicians specialize in advanced interventional pain procedures, including intercostal nerve root blocks. Chronic thoracic pain can interfere with breathing, movement, and overall comfort, making it difficult to perform routine tasks. With years of experience serving patients throughout the Denver Metro and Colorado Springs area, MD Pain provides expert evaluation and treatment designed to target the source of pain.
During the procedure, the physician uses imaging guidance to carefully inject medication near the affected nerve root. This ensures precision and minimizes discomfort. Because the treatment targets the specific nerve causing pain, patients often notice relief within a few days. Additionally, the response to the injection can help determine if longer-lasting treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation, may be appropriate.
Why Patients Choose MD Pain for Nerve Pain Care
MD Pain has built a reputation for experience, trust, and longevity in pain management throughout Denver and the surrounding region. Our team of board-certified anesthesiologists and pain specialists focuses on patient-centered care, offering advanced solutions for complex pain conditions.
Benefits of treatment at MD Pain include:
- Targeted relief delivered precisely to the affected intercostal nerve root
- Outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time
- Individualized care plans based on thorough evaluation
- Experienced physicians who provide guidance every step of the way
Our approach ensures that each patient receives the treatment best suited to their unique condition while maintaining comfort and safety.
Conditions That May Benefit from Intercostal Nerve Root Blocks
Intercostal nerve root blocks are recommended for patients experiencing persistent thoracic pain that may be caused by:
- Nerve irritation due to spinal degeneration
- Post-surgical or post-traumatic nerve pain
- Chronic rib or chest wall pain
- Pain related to shingles or other nerve inflammation
By interrupting the pain signals, patients may achieve meaningful relief that supports daily activity and overall well-being.
Questions Patients Often Ask About Thoracic Nerve Pain
The physicians at MD Pain start with a detailed consultation to understand the source and pattern of your thoracic pain. MD Pain reviews imaging, symptoms, and medical history to determine whether a nerve root block may provide relief. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment aligns with your condition and goals.
MD Pain performs intercostal nerve root blocks in a controlled outpatient setting with careful use of anesthetics. The procedure is guided by advanced imaging to enhance accuracy and reduce discomfort. MD Pain ensures that patients are comfortable throughout the process and fully understand post-procedure care.
Relief duration varies by patient and underlying cause of pain. Many patients treated at MD Pain notice significant improvement for days to weeks, sometimes longer. MD Pain uses the response to the injection to guide future treatment decisions, including possible longer-lasting options.
Like all procedures, intercostal nerve root blocks carry minimal risks when performed by experienced specialists. MD Pain follows strict safety protocols and monitors patients closely during and after the procedure to ensure optimal outcomes.
MD Pain has years of experience providing interventional pain treatments across the Denver Metro and Colorado Springs area. Our physicians combine advanced techniques with individualized care, creating treatment plans that address the specific needs of each patient. Patients trust MD Pain for our expertise, precision, and patient-centered approach.