Patient handout · Pain treatments
Stellate Ganglion Block
What it is
The stellate ganglion is a group of nerves in the neck. A block puts numbing medicine near these nerves. It may help some kinds of pain in the arm, face or chest.
Why it is done
- Complex regional pain syndrome of the arm
- Certain nerve pain of the head, neck or arm
- Some vascular conditions affecting the arm
What to expect
- Before: We review your medicines, especially blood thinners, and any allergies. You may need someone to drive you home.
- During: You lie on your back. The skin on the front of the neck is cleaned and numbed. The doctor uses imaging to guide a thin needle and gives the medicine.
- After: Your voice may sound hoarse, or one eyelid may droop, for a few hours. This is common. You usually go home the same day.
Self-care tips
- Rest the day of your injection. Most people return to light activity the next day.
- Ice on the site for 15 to 20 minutes may ease soreness.
- Keep a pain diary for 2 weeks to share with us.
- Keep taking your usual medicines unless we tell you otherwise.
When to call us
- Fever or chills
- Redness, swelling, warmth or drainage where the needle went in
- Pain that is much worse than before, or new weakness or numbness
- A bad headache that is worse when you sit or stand
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
This handout is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.