Nerve Blocks


What is a Nerve Block?

Nerve blocks are injections of local anaesthetic medicine used for pain management to provide optimal comfort after your surgery. The nerve block injection is often done whilst you are asleep under general anaesthetic or sedated with relaxing medicine.


The local anaesthetic is injected around the nerves, and the medicine usually reduces pain for 8-24 hours. Sometimes a thin plastic tube, called a catheter, can be placed in a way that allows continued delivery of local anaesthetic medicine around the nerves for a few days.  Dr Brinkmann is experienced in the use of ultrasound guidance for nerve blocks, which enables visualisation of the nerves and other structures. This makes the injection safer and more effective.


What are the potential benefits of nerve blocks?

Why have a nerve block?

  • Better pain relief
  • Less need for strong pain killers (which can make you feel sick, drowsy and constipated)
  • Feeling less drowsy and more clear headed
  • Faster recovery
  • Leave hospital sooner


What are the risks and side effects of nerve blocks?

Modern anaesthesia is very safe, but risk cannot be removed completely. Sometimes prolonged numbness, tingling or pain is due to the surgery, the nerve block, positioning, underlying disease (such as diabetes or neuropathy) or a combination of factors.

  • Depending on the surgery you may require additional pain relief
  • Some people (about 1 in 10) experience a prolonged patch of tingling or numbness that may last for up to one week.
  • Nerve injury causing altered feeling or strength for days, months, or longer is extremely rare.
  • Life-threatening events such as allergy are treated immediately


Block safety and pain relief after the operation

After the nerve block you may be weak or numb in that part of the body. The medicine usually reduces pain for 8-24 hours. During this time:

  • Use your sling or brace if you have been provided with one
  • Take extra care around very hot or very cold objects
  • Use help for every day tasks
  • Don't drive
  • Take the pain relievers that you are normally on, or alternative pain reliever medicines that have been prescribed for you.
  • You may need to take more pain reliever medicine once you notice the numbness from the block starting to wear off.


Support and contact

If you have any problems or require support after the nerve block please contact us via phone or email using the contact details provided. You can also discuss with your GP. In an emergency call 000.