Nerve Blocks: Abdominal Wall Nerves Treatment Near Richmond, VA

An easy and reliable solution for managing abdominal wall pain.

What is a Nerve Block for Abdominal Wall Nerves?

Whether you are preparing for surgery or seeking relief from persistent discomfort, a nerve block can offer precise pain management by temporarily numbing the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. For individuals in Richmond, VA, nerve blocks targeting the pelvic or lower abdominal area are often considered, with three common nerve groups involved: the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves, the genitofemoral nerve, or the pudendal nerves.

When referring specifically to an abdominal wall nerve block, this involves injections around the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves. These nerves lie close together in the lower abdomen and often supply sensation to the same regions. In some cases, one of these nerves may even be absent. Typically, they provide sensation to the lower pelvis, the upper inner thigh, and in some women, the uppermost part of the labia, or in some men, the scrotum.

Why is a Nerve Block Performed?

At the Center for Advanced Gynecology, an abdominal wall nerve block may be suggested for several purposes:

To address neuropathic pain originating from the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves
To relieve persistent pain in the abdominal wall, groin, hip, or pelvic region
To manage lower abdominal, groin, labial, or scrotal discomfort
To reduce pain following abdominal surgeries such as hernia repair, appendectomy, cesarean section, or laparoscopic procedures
To decrease the need for postoperative pain medications and support overall pain management after surgery

What are the Risks?

Abdominal wall nerve blocks are considered safe, though there are some minor risks. These can include bleeding, infection, or an allergic reaction to the local anesthetic. Your healthcare provider will review these possible risks with you prior to the procedure.

What To Expect

During an abdominal nerve block, your provider carefully positions a needle near the target nerves. A local anesthetic, and sometimes a steroid, is then administered slowly to interrupt pain signaling. Ultrasound guidance is used to ensure precise and safe placement.

The anesthetic temporarily prevents the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, often providing immediate relief. Some numbness in the area is normal and expected. Your provider will monitor your comfort and address any questions throughout the procedure. When successful, the block can offer pain relief that lasts for several months.

Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

The Center for Advanced Gynecology, founded in 2018, is committed to supporting your overall health by providing expertise across a range of gynecological services, with a particular focus on advanced surgical techniques when needed.

We offer specialized care for non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder discomfort.

Since our establishment, we have recognized that patients require more than specialty care alone. Our practice has expanded to include comprehensive routine gynecologic services such as cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, evaluation of hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast health, contraceptive guidance, urinary incontinence management, and pelvic organ prolapse care.

Frequently Asked Questions

A nerve block is designed to provide targeted pain relief for a minimum of six hours, but when treating persistent or chronic pain, the goal is to achieve extended relief that can last for several months. Patients seeking ongoing relief from abdominal, pelvic, or groin discomfort often find that the effects of a nerve block allow them to regain mobility and reduce dependency on oral pain medications.

When the initial nerve block proves effective, the procedure can typically be repeated every one to three months. For residents of Richmond experiencing recurrent or chronic pain, repeated nerve blocks can provide a manageable schedule for maintaining consistent pain relief without interfering with daily routines.

A nerve block can be an excellent option for those who want to address pain directly at its source. By focusing on specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals, the procedure can reduce reliance on oral or systemic pain medications, which sometimes carry unwanted side effects. Your provider can evaluate your particular symptoms and determine whether a nerve block is the optimal choice for your pain management plan.

The nerve block procedure itself typically takes about fifteen minutes to complete. Patients should plan to be at the clinic for approximately forty-five minutes to accommodate pre-procedural preparation and post-procedural safety monitoring. This timeframe ensures that everyone in Richmond receiving the procedure can be observed for any immediate effects and leave the clinic safely.

The injection for a nerve block usually consists of a combination of anesthetics, such as lidocaine and bupivacaine, and in some cases, a steroid like Kenalog (triamcinolone) or Depo-medrol (methylprednisolone acetate). These medications work together to temporarily block pain signals and reduce inflammation in the targeted area.

Most patients report only minor discomfort during the procedure. The initial needle insertion may cause a brief prick, followed by a mild burning sensation from the anesthetic. Pressure in the targeted area may be felt, which usually subsides within a few minutes. After the procedure, mild soreness can persist for up to a week, which is considered normal.

If you are experiencing persistent pain in your lower abdomen, pelvis, groin, or upper labia or scrotum that is not explained by conditions inside the abdomen, a nerve block may be a suitable treatment. Richmond patients dealing with these types of pain can consult their provider to discuss symptoms and medical history to determine if a nerve block is the most effective method for relief.

Your healthcare provider will carefully review your medical history and any known allergies to local anesthetics to ensure the procedure is safe for you. Safety protocols in clinics are designed to prevent complications and tailor treatments to each patient’s specific needs.