Transforaminal Nerve Root Block

A minimally invasive procedure to relieve neck and back pain

Nerve roots in the spine can become inflamed because of several spinal conditions, such as:

• Arthritis
• Herniation or rupture of a spinal disc
• Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal

A transforaminal nerve root block involves injecting steroid medication near where the nerve root exits the spinal column. We can use this procedure both to relieve neck and back pain and to find where exactly the source of your pain is. Many people who undergo this procedure experience pain relief that lasts several months, and some experience permanent pain relief.

There is a small risk of complications from a transforaminal nerve root block, although these are rare. Possible complications include:

• Pain, including a temporary increase in pain levels
• Changes in blood pressure
• Infection
• Bleeding

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

What to Expect From Your Transforaminal Nerve Root Block

When you arrive for your procedure, one of our nurses will speak with you about what your back or neck 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

It’s especially important to tell your nurse if you:
Are allergic to contrast dye, Betadine (iodine), or latex
Currently take blood thinners
Have diabetes or could be pregnant

Next, you’ll discuss the procedure with your doctor and go into the X-ray room, where we’ll help you onto a table. Once you’re comfortable, we’ll clean your skin with an antiseptic and numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then your doctor will place a small needle near the affected nerve using X-ray guidance. We may use a small amount of contrast dye to ensure that the needle is in the correct area. Once the needle is in place, your doctor will inject the steroid medication. The entire procedure will last only a couple of minutes.

The anesthetic you receive can make your arms and legs feel weak or numb, so you should plan to stay with us for 15 to 20 minutes after your transforaminal nerve root block. During this time, a nurse will go over any questions you may have and review your discharge instructions and required follow-up care.

When You Go Home After Your Transforaminal Nerve Root Block

After you return home from your procedure, try to rest and avoid any activities that might aggravate your back or neck pain. You usually can return to work the same day and resume exercising the next day if you don’t have any pain or discomfort.

You may notice some pain or discomfort at the injection site for the first 48 hours after your transforaminal nerve root block. Place ice on your injection site or take over-the-counter pain medications to ease any pain.

Many patients experience pain relief after their first or second injection, while some patients will need three injections. Don’t be discouraged if your pain doesn’t go away immediately. You may need to follow up with your doctor or to have another injection in two or three weeks.

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