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Dorsal root ganglion block
SELECTIVE NERVE ROOT BLOCK INJECTION FOR BACK PAIN
If you suffer from chronic back pain, a spinal injection can offer relief by slowing or blocking painful nerve impulses
What is a dorsal root ganglion?
The dorsal root ganglion is a bundle of sensory nerve cells that send impulses to your spinal cord.
If your spinal nerves are irritated, an injection can block painful impulses.
As well as treating pain, a dorsal root ganglion block can be used to help pinpoint the area and cause of your back pain.
Need to know
Treatment is done under local anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be awake but shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure.
You'll be asked to lie on your stomach while your consultant inserts a special needle into your spine and carefully guides it towards the dorsal root ganglion. A small amount of contrast dye may be injected first. This will help them to see the exact position of the needle using an X-ray instrument called a fluoroscope.
Once the needle is in the correct position, a solution of a steroid, sometimes along with more local anaesthetic, will be injected to relieve the pain.
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. It's important to tell them about any medications you're currently taking. You'll also need to arrange for someone to take you home after your appointment, as you shouldn't drive immediately following the procedure.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
After the procedure, your consultant will help you to stand. Your legs may feel a little weak initially, but this shouldn't last long. Most people will start to experience some pain relief within 15 minutes of the procedure.
You'll be able to go home shortly afterwards. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise.
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Paying for medical treatment
You don't need medical insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.
Dorsal root ganglion block Consultants
Mr Ramsey Chammaa
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Colin Natali
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Neil Dorward
Neurosurgery
Mr Sanjeev Bassi
Neurosurgery
Our locations
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.