Peripheral Nerve Blocks

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

A peripheral nerve block places numbing medication around a specific peripheral nerve to interrupt its pain signal — both relieving the pain and confirming that nerve as the source. It's a targeted tool for nerve-driven pain that a surgeon can act on directly.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

How a Peripheral Nerve Block Works

What Is a Peripheral Nerve Block?

A peripheral nerve block targets a specific peripheral nerve — one outside the spinal canal — that's generating pain. Numbing medication (sometimes with a steroid) is placed around the nerve to interrupt its pain signal. Like other blocks, it's both therapeutic and diagnostic: relief confirms that nerve as the source, which is especially useful when it's unclear whether pain is coming from the spine or a nerve compressed elsewhere.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

A peripheral nerve block is considered when pain appears to come from a specific peripheral nerve, or to help distinguish a spinal source from a nerve compressed elsewhere. The result guides targeted treatment, which may include decompression if the nerve is being pinched.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Life Beyond the Pain

How It Works & What to Expect

It's a quick outpatient procedure. The nerve is located — often with imaging or ultrasound guidance — and numbing medication is placed precisely around it. Most patients feel only brief pressure, and you'll note how much your usual pain improves.

Recovery & Results

You'll return to normal activity the same or next day. The relief helps confirm the diagnosis and direct the next step — whether that's a repeat therapeutic block, physical therapy, or, if a nerve is compressed, a targeted decompression.

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

Insurance & Out-of-Network

We welcome out-of-network patients and will explain your likely costs and coverage before anything is scheduled — no surprises, and no referral required.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Frequently Asked Questions