At New York Sports Spine Pain Medicine, we offer Intercostal Nerve Blocks as an effective and proven solution for managing pain in the rib cage, chest, and lower back. This minimally invasive procedure provides substantial relief for patients suffering from chronic or acute pain caused by injury, surgery, nerve irritation, or conditions such as rib fractures, post-surgical pain, or intercostal neuralgia.

How Intercostal Nerve Blocks Work
The intercostal nerves run along the underside of each rib, transmitting pain signals from the surrounding muscles, tissues, and joints. By injecting a local anesthetic—often combined with an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid—directly around the affected intercostal nerve, the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain is temporarily blocked. This interruption significantly reduces or eliminates pain, offering immediate and effective relief.

Who Can Benefit from Intercostal Nerve Blocks?
Intercostal Nerve Blocks are particularly effective for:
-Chronic lower back or rib cage pain
-Pain resulting from rib fractures or chest wall injuries
-Post-surgical pain following chest or abdominal procedures
-Intercostal neuralgia (nerve pain caused by irritation or inflammation)
-Unexplained or undiagnosed chronic pain in the rib or lower back area

Benefits of Intercostal Nerve Blocks:

Rapid Pain Relief: Many patients experience immediate or near-immediate relief following the injection.
Targeted Treatment: The procedure directly addresses the source of pain, improving accuracy and effectiveness.

Improved Quality of Life: Pain relief enables patients to engage in physical therapy, daily activities, and exercise with greater comfort.

Diagnostic Benefits: Intercostal Nerve Blocks can help pinpoint the exact source of pain when a diagnosis is uncertain.

Minimally Invasive: This outpatient procedure involves minimal discomfort and requires little to no downtime.

The Procedure
Intercostal Nerve Blocks are performed in our state-of-the-art procedure suite under fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray imaging) to ensure precision and safety. After identifying the targeted nerve, a fine needle is inserted near the rib, and the anesthetic/steroid medication is delivered with pinpoint accuracy. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes, and patients can resume normal activities soon after.

Why Choose New York Sports Spine Pain Medicine?
Our team of specialists is dedicated to delivering advanced, individualized pain management solutions. Intercostal Nerve Blocks are part of our comprehensive approach to treating chronic pain, particularly for patients who have not found relief through other therapies. By providing immediate and effective pain relief, these nerve blocks empower patients to reclaim their mobility, comfort, and quality of life.

If you are experiencing persistent pain in the rib cage, chest, or lower back, Intercostal Nerve Blocks may be the solution to help you move forward, pain-free.