The blockade of nerve end branches in the lower limb is a technique used to relieve chronic pain in the leg and foot.
This procedure is performed by injecting local anesthetic, and in some cases corticosteroids, near the nerve endings in the lower limb.
At Clínica San Román’s Pain Management Unit, this treatment is an effective option for those patients who suffer from persistent leg pain due to various neurological conditions or injuries.
What are the Nerve Terminal Branches in the Lower Limb?
The terminal branches of the nerves in the lower limb are the end portions of the peripheral nerves that innervate the leg, foot and toes.
These nerves, such as the femoral, sciatic, saphenous and tibial nerves, are responsible for sensation and motor control in the lower extremities.
When these nerve endings are affected by injury, compression or chronic medical conditions, they can cause severe or chronic pain that affects the patient’s quality of life.
Indications for Nerve Terminal Branch Blocks in the Lower Limb
This treatment is recommended for people who experience chronic pain in the legs or feet due to various conditions, such as:
- Peripheral neuropathies: Damage to peripheral nerves causing pain, numbness and tingling in the legs.
- Postoperative or post-traumatic pain: Persistent pain after surgery or injury to the leg or foot.
- Arthritis and osteoarthritis of the hip or knee: Pain caused by these conditions may radiate to the lower limb, affecting the leg and foot.
- Injuries to nerves such as the sciatic, tibial or femoral nerves: Irritation or compression of these nerves can result in significant pain.
How does the Nerve Terminal Branch Block Work?
Nerve terminal branch block is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting local anesthetics, and in some cases, steroids, in the vicinity of the nerve endings that are causing the pain.
This injection temporarily blocks pain signals from being transmitted to the brain, providing significant relief and improving lower limb function.
The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure optimal precision.
This allows the specialist to visualize the nerve anatomy in real time, ensuring that the injection is performed in the correct area, minimizing risks and maximizing treatment efficacy.
Benefits of Nerve Terminal Branch Blocks in the Lower Limb
This treatment has multiple benefits for patients suffering from chronic leg and foot pain:
- Rapid pain relief: Patients usually experience an immediate reduction in pain after injection.
- Improved motor function: By relieving pain, patients can regain mobility and improve their ability to walk or perform daily activities.
- Minimally invasive procedure: The nerve block does not require surgery, which minimizes recovery time and associated risks.
- Reduced need for pain medication: This treatment can help reduce dependence on painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Prolonged relief: Depending on the patient and the underlying cause of the pain, relief can last for weeks or months, allowing for a significant improvement in quality of life.
Procedure and Recovery
The nerve end branch block in the lower limb is an outpatient procedure that usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes.
Prior to the injection, a local anesthetic is applied to the skin to minimize any discomfort.
Using ultrasound, the physician locates the affected nerve endings and administers the injection of anesthetic and, if necessary, steroids.
After the procedure, patients usually experience pain relief within hours.
In most cases, daily activities can be resumed the same day or the next day, although it is advisable to avoid strenuous physical exertion for the first 24 hours.
Pain relief may last for several weeks or months, depending on the condition treated and the patient’s response.
When to Consider Nerve Terminal Branch Block?
This procedure is ideal for patients who have tried other options without obtaining adequate pain relief.
It is especially useful for those suffering from neuropathic pain, traumatic peripheral nerve injuries or persistent postoperative lower limb pain.
The block may also be an effective alternative for patients who do not wish to undergo invasive surgery.
At Clínica San Román, our pain specialists will evaluate your case individually to determine if this treatment is right for you.
In addition, nerve terminal branch blockade in the lower limb can be combined with other therapies, such as physical therapy, for best results.
Conclusion
Nerve terminal branch block in the lower limb is an effective treatment option for those suffering from chronic pain in the legs or feet.
This minimally invasive procedure, performed at Clínica San Román’s Pain Management Unit, offers fast and lasting relief, significantly improving patients’ quality of life.
If you experience persistent pain in the lower extremities, do not hesitate to contact us for a specialized consultation to explore how nerve blocks can help you live pain-free.
