Julie - The scalene block is typically diagnostic. I've heard of some people getting relief for several weeks after an injection but I think the response depends on each person and the sort of medication used. My shots were all done in physician offices under EMG and ultrasound guidance. I've had scalene blocks and botox injections since 2004 and they've all been done in this setting with different doctors. Your doctor's office will tell you if you need to do anything to prepare for the procedure. I didn't need to do anything special for my shots. They even did one of my blocks when it wasn't scheduled as my symptoms were really stirred up.