Stellate Ganglion Block

Targeted relief for nerve-related pain and sympathetic disorders.

What Is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

A Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a minimally invasive injection performed in the neck to target the stellate ganglion a cluster of nerves that are part of the sympathetic nervous system. These nerves play a key role in regulating pain signals, blood flow, and temperature in the head, neck, chest, and upper extremities.

By injecting a local anesthetic near this nerve bundle, the block helps temporarily interrupt nerve activity, providing relief from chronic pain and various dysfunctions associated with nerve overactivity.

What Is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

A Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a minimally invasive injection performed in the neck to target the stellate ganglion a cluster of nerves that are part of the sympathetic nervous system. These nerves play a key role in regulating pain signals, blood flow, and temperature in the head, neck, chest, and upper extremities.

By injecting a local anesthetic near this nerve bundle, the block helps temporarily interrupt nerve activity, providing relief from chronic pain and various dysfunctions associated with nerve overactivity.

How Stellate Ganglion Blocks Work

The procedure typically involves:

✔ Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin is cleaned and sterilized.

✔ Numbing the Skin: A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.

✔ Injection: Using imaging guidance (such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound), a thin needle is inserted near the stellate ganglion, and the anesthetic is administered.

This process usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Benefits of Stellate Ganglion Blocks

Stellate ganglion blocks provide focused relief for conditions linked to the sympathetic nervous system. This procedure not only helps reduce chronic pain but also offers diagnostic value and faster recovery—making it a reliable option when other treatments fall short.

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Targeted Pain Relief

Effective for conditions like Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and post-herpetic neuralgia.

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Symptom Reduction

May alleviate symptoms such as swelling, color changes, and sweating abnormalities.

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Improved Circulation

Can enhance blood flow in the upper extremities.

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Diagnostic Tool

Helps determine if pain is sympathetically maintained.

Conditions Treated with Stellate Ganglion Blocks

Stellate Ganglion Blocks can help with:

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Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Chronic nerve pain, often affecting limbs, that may follow an injury or surgery and include swelling, temperature changes, or skin discoloration.

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Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

Persistent nerve pain that continues after a shingles outbreak, usually in the chest, back, or face.

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Raynaud’s Phenomenon

A circulatory disorder where cold or stress causes numbness and color changes in the fingers or toes.

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Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

Overactive sweating, usually in the hands, face, or upper body, that affects daily comfort and confidence.

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Certain Types of Chronic Pain

Long-standing pain in the head, neck, or upper body that may be influenced by sympathetic nerve dysfunction.

What to Expect During the Procedure

01 Before the Procedure

✔ A thorough evaluation of your medical history.

✔ Discussion of the procedure, benefits, and potential risks.

✔ Instructions on pre-procedure preparations.

02 During the Procedure

✔ You will lie on your back with a slight roll under your shoulders.

✔ The injection site on your neck will be cleaned.

✔ Using imaging guidance, the physician will insert a needle near the stellate ganglion and inject the anesthetic.

03 After the Procedure

✔ Monitoring for 30 to 60 minutes to observe effects and any side effects.

✔ You may experience temporary symptoms like drooping eyelid, red eye, or hoarseness, which typically resolve within a few hours.

✔ Instructions will be provided for post-procedure care.

Ideal Candidates for Stellate Ganglion Blocks

You may be a suitable candidate if:

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Chronic Pain Conditions like CRPS or Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

Pain rooted in sympathetic nerve activity that hasn’t responded to standard care.

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Poor Response to Conservative Treatments

Physical therapy, medications, or injections have not brought lasting relief.

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Looking for a Minimally Invasive Option

You want pain relief without surgery or long recovery times.

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No Major Health Contraindications

You don’t have active infections, bleeding disorders, or conditions that increase procedural risk.

Risks and Potential Side Effects

While Stellate Ganglion Blocks are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects and rare complications.

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Common Side Effects

You may experience temporary effects such as drooping eyelid (Horner’s syndrome), red or bloodshot eye, hoarseness, nasal congestion, or a warm, tingling sensation in the arm or hand. These effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few hours.

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Rare but Serious Complications

Though uncommon, serious risks may include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), or seizure if medication accidentally enters a blood vessel. These complications are rare and your provider will take every precaution to minimize risk.

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.

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Tualatin Clinic

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Newberg Clinic

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.



Tualatin Clinic



Newberg Clinic

Why Choose Spinal Diagnostics?

Patients choose Spinal Diagnostics for our comprehensive approach, accurate diagnostics, and compassionate care. We stay at the forefront of interventional procedures and are committed to improving your quality of life—without opioids or invasive surgeries.