Medial Branch Block
A precise diagnostic injection that identifies the facet joints as the source of back or neck pain, and provides therapeutic relief -- often serving as the gateway to long-lasting radiofrequency ablation.
What Is Medial Branch Block?
A medial branch block targets the medial branch nerves, which are small nerves that carry pain signals from the facet joints of the spine. Facet joints are the paired joints connecting each vertebra. When these joints become arthritic or inflamed, they generate significant back and neck pain. A medial branch block both confirms the diagnosis and provides relief.
How It Works
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician places a small needle adjacent to the medial branch nerves at the targeted vertebral levels. Local anesthetic is injected to temporarily block the pain signals from those facet joints. If the injection provides significant relief, it confirms the facet joints as the pain source and qualifies the patient for radiofrequency ablation for longer-lasting results.
Diagnostic Purpose
Two medial branch blocks are typically required before proceeding to radiofrequency ablation, per insurance guidelines.
Positioning & Prep
You lie on the procedure table. Fluoroscopy confirms exact needle placement at each target nerve.
Injection
A small amount of local anesthetic is injected at each nerve. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Assessment
You track your pain relief over the following hours. Greater than 50% relief confirms facet joint pain.
Conditions It Treats
Why Choose DVPSI?
DVPSI physicians perform lumbar, cervical, and thoracic medial branch blocks under fluoroscopic guidance. Accurate diagnostic blocks are essential before proceeding to radiofrequency ablation, and our physicians follow established protocols to ensure reliable results.
- Fluoroscopic guidance for precise needle placement
- Diagnostic pathway to radiofrequency ablation for lasting relief
- Covered by most insurance including Medicare
- Available at all three locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions from our patients.
Ready to find relief?
Our board-certified specialists are ready to evaluate whether Medial Branch Block is right for you. Same-week appointments available.