A lumbar sympathetic nerve block is a special test to help Dr. Yu find the cause of your symptoms. During the test, an anesthetic (numbing) medication is injected near your spine. This “blocks” the sympathetic nerves in that region. If these nerves are causing your symptoms, the injection may offer relief for a while immediately after the procedure.

If effective, Dr. Yu may recommend a series of these blocks 1-2 weeks apart which may help give you more long term pain relief.

How do I prepare for my procedure?

No solid food or fluids after midnight prior to the procedure unless directed otherwise. You may take your medications with a small amount of water. Diabetics should not take their medication for diabetes until after the procedure is complete. Please check your blood sugar at home before arriving.

If you are taking any blood thinners such as Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, or any others, these medications must be discontinued well before the procedure. 

How can we help?

Dr. Jason Yu can properly diagnose the symptoms with your pain to see if sympathetic nerve blocks are right for you – schedule a call or appointment to find relief, today!