The process may differ depending on which pain mapping procedure you’re undergoing, but will typically follow the following steps:

• The physician will inject a luminescent medication into the back and then use an X-ray to pinpoint the exact nerves potentially associated with your discomfort. This process is called nerve blocking.
• We can then apply a highly targeted dose of numbing medication to a suspected irritated nerve, which can significantly reduce or even eliminate pain stemming from the nerve in question. A steroid medication may be added to further reduce swelling or irritation around a compressed or pinched nerve.
• Nerve root blocks are usually done in succession, one after the other, to determine exactly which nerves are causing your pain and then provide temporary relief to each.
• The numbing medication typically wears off in a few hours, with the end goal being the ability to design a pinpointed, customized course of treatment to solve the root issues and lessen the pain.

Our Microspine team and Dr. T will gather all the data including as to whether you have any relief of the symptoms to determine the best next step for you.

Our focus on state-of-the-art minimally invasive options means that patients typically see shortened recovery times and the ability to return to their daily activities sooner than later.