What is a Medial Branch Block?
A Medial Branch Block (MBB) is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and relieve pain in the neck, mid-back, and lower back that comes from your facet joints (the joints where your vertebrae connect). It targets the medial branch nerves, which carry pain signals from the facet joints to the brain.
How does a Medial Branch Block work?
- A small amount of anesthetic is injected near the medial branch nerves.
- Blocks pain signals from reaching the brain.
- Helps determine if your pain originates from the facet joints.
- Can provide temporary or prolonged pain relief.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The procedure takes only 10-15 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting.
- You will lie comfortably while our specialists clean and numb the injection site.
- Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the doctor carefully injects the anesthetic into the medial branch nerves.
You may experience immediate pain relief, which helps determine if additional treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), are needed for longer-term relief.
Minimal Recovery Time – Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
Next Steps – If the block is successful, further treatments may be recommended.
Who can benefit from a Medial Branch Block?
You may be a candidate if you suffer from:
- Chronic neck or back pain due to facet joint syndrome.
- Pain due to whiplash, trauma, or degenerative changes.
- Limited mobility due to persistent discomfort.
What happens after the procedure?
Pain relief may begin immediately after the medication has been injected. You will be observed in the waiting room for about 15 minutes. Do not participate in strenuous activity the day of injection, but you may resume typical recent activities, such as chiropractic treatment and physical therapy, the next day.