IV Regional Block

A minimally invasive procedure to treat complex regional pain syndrome

Certain injuries and illnesses can cause a condition called complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a type of chronic nerve pain. In an intravenous (IV) regional block, sometimes called a Bier block, we use an IV line to inject medications in the area where your pain is located. These medications can relieve your pain.

Pain Management Service, Newton-Wellesley Ambulatory Care Center
159 Wells Avenue
Newton, MA 02459
Phone: 617-243-6142

What to Expect From Your IV Regional Block

When you arrive for your procedure, one of our nurses will speak with you about what your pain is like and how you manage daily activities. We’ll record the following vital health information:

• Allergies
• Blood pressure
• Brief health history
• Medications you’re currently taking
• Pulse
• Temperature
• Weight

Next, we’ll help you onto a table, and we will start an IV line in your hand or foot, depending on the location of your pain. After you discuss the procedure with your doctor, we’ll inject the medications through your IV line. You’ll have a tourniquet on the treated limb for 30 minutes to keep the medications in place. The entire procedure will take only a few minutes.

We’ll monitor you for possible side effects from the injected medications. These side effects can include:

• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
• Changes in heart rate and/or blood pressure 

During this time, a nurse will go over any questions you may have and review your discharge instructions and required follow-up care. Due to the side effects of your injection, you will need someone to drive you home after your IV regional block.

When You Go Home After Your IV Regional Block

After you return home from your procedure, try to rest and avoid activities that might aggravate your pain. You likely can return to work and exercise the next day. Do not drive for three hours after your injection.

Call your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms after your IV regional block:

• Chills
• Fever
• Redness, swelling, or drainage at the injection site

Use ice or heat on your injection site and take over-the-counter pain medications to ease any pain. Many patients experience pain relief for two to 14 days after an IV regional block, and some experience long-lasting relief after several injections. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t notice relief right away. You may need to make an appointment for a follow-up examination or another injection.

Talk to your doctor for more information about receiving a referral for an IV regional block, or call us at 617-243-6142 to request an appointment.