Nerve Blocks & Medial Branch Blocks | Specialty Medical Center

Written by the Specialty Medical Center editorial teamNot individually reviewed by a physicianApproved for publication by SMC, October 31, 2026How we write and review

What are nerve blocks and medial branch blocks?

A nerve block is an injection of numbing medicine, sometimes with a steroid, near a specific nerve. It can relieve pain, and it also shows which nerve is carrying the pain. A medial branch block targets the small nerves to the spine's facet joints; if it relieves your pain for a few hours, radiofrequency ablation of those nerves may give longer relief.

Who it may help

Facet joint pain in the neck or low back
Nerve pain in an arm or leg
Headaches that start in the neck
Planning for radiofrequency ablation

What happens

The injection is done with X-ray (fluoroscopy) or ultrasound guidance so the medicine reaches the right spot. You lie still for a few minutes while the skin is numbed and the needle is placed. You'll be asked to track your pain for the next several hours.

Recovery and outlook

Most people go home the same day and return to normal activity within a day. Have someone drive you if you receive sedation.

Risks

Soreness at the injection site, temporary numbness or weakness, and rarely bleeding, infection or nerve injury.

Other options to discuss

Cost and coverage

When a procedure is medically necessary, it is usually billed to health insurance, Michigan auto no-fault or workers' comp. Many plans need prior authorization. Our team checks your benefits before your procedure is scheduled and tells you about any cost you're likely to owe. See who usually pays · Ask us to check your coverage

Where to get care at Specialty Medical Center

Our interventional pain physicians see patients in Dearborn, Sterling Heights (15 Mile and Schoenherr Rd), Garden City and Pontiac, with online booking in Dearborn and Sterling Heights. Part of Specialty Pain Management.

Eduardo José Otero Loperena, MDInterventional pain medicine

Mohamed Osman, MDPain management

Aaron Greenberg, DOPhysical medicine and rehabilitation

Who performs procedures, and where:

Dr. Eduardo José Otero: Universal Care Surgery Center
Dr. Mohamed Osman and Dr. Aaron Greenberg: Universal Care Surgery Center and Advanced Surgery Center
Dr. Roy Torcuator: Advanced Surgery Center and Garden City Hospital

Office injections are done in our offices. Your physician confirms who performs your procedure, and where, at your consultation.

This page gives general information. Your physician will explain whether a treatment fits you, its risks and the alternatives.

Nerve blocks and medial branch blocks