Thread: Nerve Block?
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Old 04-20-2016, 01:19 PM
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8 yr Member
pinkynose pinkynose is offline
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Join Date: Jul 2015
Posts: 506
8 yr Member
Default It is confusing and it's not just us.

More than once this past year a Doctor has used the term "Nerve Block" when he really meant an Epidural Steroid Injection. I was told a nerve block was a diagnostic tool and then the procedure for an epidural was described. I did not realize the inaccuracy until I read the exchange of ideas on the subject here, between posters. I then knew I needed to research the topic more fully and if I do decide to get an epidural injection I will check to make sure Kenolog is not used as the steroid.

Most of us do not have a scientific or medical background and are just trying our best to be of service. I appreciate all of you guys more then you'll know.

I am editing because I just found this which adds to the confusion: http://apmspineandsports.com/diagnosis/epidurals/
"A selective nerve root block is a spinal procedure in which anesthetic is placed on a specific nerve root of the spine to help identify the exact source of leg or arm pain. The injection usually also contains steroid to decrease inflammation and pain. The injection is similar to a transforaminal epidural steroid injection, but in a selective nerve root block there is no attempt to have the medication enter the epidural space. Rather, the aim is strictly to cover the offending nerve root."


Quote:
Originally Posted by Hopeless View Post
I guess I have used the wrong terminology in many of my postings so I want to apologize if they have mis-led anyone in the past, present, or future.

I guess I use the term "nerve block" incorrectly.

I have had injections with lidocaine or a similar agent and it was for "diagnostic" purpose. I have also had injections with steroids for "treatment" purposes. When having injections with a steroid, I have called them nerve blocks. If I was incorrect in doing so, I do apologize but the paperwork from my insurer says: surgical procedure - nerve block

I really did not mean to cause any confusion. I have also used the same term "nerve block" regardless of the site of the injection. I have used the term for spinal injections as well as injections for nerves AFTER they have left the spinal column.

The only reason I am making this post is to clarify that I may have been guilty of using improper terminology not only in the past, but will probably do so in the future. I just don't want anyone to be mis-led if I use the wrong terms.
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Last edited by pinkynose; 04-20-2016 at 01:54 PM. Reason: more research
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