Hello all you kind listeners, well, had my sympathetic nerve block at 3:30pm Friday. I was given some type of mild sedative before hand, so it did not hurt at all. Thank goodness for all of us weenie kind out there! Now I am not sure if I am having the reaction that was intended. My right foot is bright red, burning hot, and splotchy looking. Can you guys tell me if this is what always happens? How long until it simmers down a bit? I read that it supposed to get warm, but this seems kinda strange. Thanks again for listening everyone!!

Hi Karen,

Everybody is different with how they respond and reactions to blocks. I had a similar reaction to yours and it took a little over a day for that to clear...........

Hope you have some luck with the blocks!!

If you have access to lidociane patches, this would be the time to use them!

Are they not a OTC patch? I'm guessing I need a script for them... have you ever used that biofreeze stuff?? I have read on her that it can help. Thanks again!

Hi Karen,
Biofreeze is more or less like Icy Hot or Ben Gay but not greasy. My PT uses it as a message cream on my wrist.
As far as the block, goes all I know from my experience is that it is meant to stop pain signals to the brain. In my case the symptoms I had didn't go away just the pain.
Hope that helped....

It did help, thank you Jimbo!

I soak. It could mean you are very responsive, and they just need to adjust amt. Takes away burning and super swelling for me. I have the red, burning every morning if I leave them up too long. Ah, but so far the blocks bring relief, and I'm about due for another.

I think the block is helping...my foot still hurts but the fire seems to be put out for now. I have another block in two weeks for the other foot. At least I think its for my other foot. Do they normally do blocks for the same area over and over, or do they address other problem spots right away?? Thanks for everyones input! You guys are lifesavers.

It is common to have a series of blocks directed to the same area. But, with multiple problem areas, it would be your docs call.

Well, so much for the block helping for pain...started having the burning on fire pain again yesterday afternoon. So the block worked for approx. 1 and a half days. But I gotta say, that day and a half was fantastic! (right foot only). I need to ask, do these blocks build up in your system?? Meaning, after block #4 in 4 weeks from now will it have a better effect for longer because I have had so many of them?? Karen