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Nerve Blocks: Abdominal Wall Nerves Treatment Near Lynchburg, VA
An easy and efficient method to alleviate abdominal wall pain.
What is a Nerve Block for Abdominal Wall Nerves?
Whether you're recovering from surgery or managing chronic discomfort, a nerve block offers focused relief by temporarily numbing the nerves responsible for pain. For pelvic or lower abdominal pain, nerve blocks typically target three key areas: the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves, the genitofemoral nerve, or the pudendal nerves. When talking about an abdominal wall nerve block we are referring to injections around the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves. These two nerves are located closely together in the lower abdomen and frequently share the responsibility of supplying sensation to similar areas of the body. In fact, some individuals may lack one or both of these nerves. Typically, they provide sensation to the lower pelvic region, the inner upper thigh, and in some cases, the upper portion of the labia in women or the scrotum in men.
Why is a Nerve Block Performed?
At the Center for Advanced Gynecology, a nerve block targeting abdominal wall nerves may be suggested for the following reasons:
- To treat neuropathic pain from branches of the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves
- To treat chronic abdominal wall, groin, hip, and pelvic pain
- To manage or stop lower abdominal, groin, labial or scrotal pain
- To reduce pain after abdominal surgery (hernia, appendectomy, cesarean section, laparoscopic surgery)
- To minimize postoperative pain medication use and aid in postoperative pain control
What are the Risks?
Nerve blocks in the abdominal wall are typically considered safe. However, they carry some minimal risks, including bleeding, infection, or an allergic reaction to the local anesthetic. For patients in Lynchburg, your healthcare provider will thoroughly explain these potential risks with you prior to the procedure.
What To Expect
During the nerve block procedure, for individuals in Lynchburg, your provider will carefully guide the needle into the area where the abdominal nerves are located. A local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid, will be gradually injected to block nerve signaling. The process is done using a specialized needle and is monitored with ultrasound for precision and safety.
The anesthetic will temporarily block the nerve responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain, providing almost instant pain relief. You may experience some numbness in the treated area, which is completely normal and part of the relief process. Your provider will be available to address any concerns and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Once the block is successful, many patients experience pain relief that can last for several months.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
Founded in 2018, the Center for Advanced Gynecology is committed to enhancing your well-being by providing expert care in various fields, with a strong emphasis on gynecological services and advanced surgical techniques when necessary.
Our team specializes in the non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and pain related to the vagina, vulva, and bladder.
From the very beginning, we've identified a growing need in the Lynchburg community for comprehensive care beyond specialized treatments. As a result, our practice has expanded to include routine gynecological care, cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive services, urinary incontinence treatment, and pelvic organ prolapse management.
Frequently Asked Questions
A nerve block typically provides relief for at least 6 hours, though the intended outcome is extended pain relief that can last for several months, especially in cases of chronic or persistent pain.
If the nerve block proves effective, it can generally be repeated every 1 to 3 months, depending on your individual needs and response to treatment.
A nerve block can be an effective choice because it targets specific pain sources, potentially reducing reliance on other pain medications, which may come with side effects. Your provider will help guide you in determining whether this is the best treatment for your situation.
The nerve block procedure itself typically takes around 15 minutes, but you should plan for about 45 minutes at the clinic to accommodate both pre-procedural and post-procedural safety measures.
The procedure involves a mixture of local anesthetics, such as lidocaine and bupivacaine, and occasionally a steroid like Kenalog (triamcinolone) or Depo-medrol (methylprednisolone acetate).
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, including a brief sensation of the needle insertion and a slight burning from the anesthetic. During the procedure, you may also feel pressure, which typically subsides within a few minutes. It is normal to have minor soreness for up to a week afterward.
If you're dealing with persistent pain in areas like the lower abdomen, groin, pelvis, or upper labia or scrotum, and no internal abdominal causes have been identified, a nerve block might be a suitable option. Discuss your symptoms and medical history with your provider to determine if this treatment is right for you.
Your provider will thoroughly review your medical history, including any allergies to numbing agents, to ensure the treatment is safe for you.